Quantification & Costing Flashcards
Why were the new Rules of Measurement introduced.
To standardise and improve the accuracy of measuring works.
NRM aimed to enhance cost management, reduce disputes, and provide cost compatibility with international standards
What is NRM 1
Order of cost estimating and elemental cost planning for capital building works
provides a structured basis for measuring building works and for the production of cost estimates and cost plans.
What are the key sections of NRM 1
Part 1 - general introduction explaining the purpose of the documents and how it should be used.
Part 2 - Measurement rules for the production of cost estimates
Part 3 - Measurement rules for the production of elemental cost plans
Part 4 - Tabulated rules of measurement for elemental cost planning
Why should you use the New Rules of measurement
The NRM provides a common and consistent basis for the production of cost estimates and cost plans
NRM is seen as best practice, therefore in the event QS had a claim against them for negligence, if they could prove they used NRM it could provide a good defence against the claim.
What does GEA stand for
Gross External Area
this is the area of the building measured externally at each floor
What does GIA stand for
Gross Internal area
area of the building measured to the internal face of the external walls.
Excludes external open sided balconies, canopies, external walls and fuel stores
What does NIA stand for
Net internal area
this is the area of useable space measured to the internal face of the perimeter wall at each floor level.
The NIA excludes internal structural walls, columns, spaces with headroom less than 1.5m, lift lobbies, toilets, plant rooms
Where are all the abbreviations found
The Code of Measuring Practice, issued by the RICS
What is the purpose of the code of measuring practice
Provides precise definitions to allow for accurate and consistent measurement of buildings
What would you expect the percentage of NIA to GIA to be
The percentage would depend on the type of project you are undertaking
For example in an office building, the NIA to GIA would be roughly 70%-85%
Where 70% is considered as relatively inefficient, a percentage of 85% is considered very efficient.
What do you measure in accordance with
The method of measurement would depend on the region, project and client i am working for
For example in the united kingdom, in the building sector, i would use the New Rules of Measurement.
What is the purpose of a BOQ
To provide the estimator with an accurate picture of the scope of works and common consistent basis for pricing
How would you prepare a BOQ
Compile all necessary information - drawings specifications, schedules, document registers.
If the Information provided was sufficient to allow for the BOQ to be compiled, i would discuss with the project team the best method of measurement to be adopted.
i would then commence the take-off and work from the sub-structure upwards.
following the BOQ production i would carry out regular meetings and review any updated drawings to ensure that no that no works items have been missed between packages.
How would you structure a BOQ
In accordance with an elemental breakdown structure under NRM 2, I would include the following sections:-
o Preliminaries (Main Contract).
o Facilitating Works.
o Substructure.
o Superstructure.
o Internal Finishes.
o Fittings, Furnishings and Equipment.
o Services.
o External Works.
o Provisional Sums.
o Dayworks
How would you describe the preliminaries section in a BOQ
- The preliminaries detail out items of works that are required but are not associated in the main measured works.
For example, site set up, management & supervision, or insurances
How do you evaluate a variation which is based on a BQ item which contains an error
Assuming the same nature and conditions are applicable, the variation would be based on the BOQ rate in the contract
unless both parties agree to amend the rate to a fair and reasonable alternative
What is a Provisional Sum
It is an allowance for item of works that cannot be defined or accurately priced.
What is the difference between defined and undefined Provisional sums
- Defined Provisional sums are those which have been described in sufficient detail that the contractor is expected to have made allowance for them in their programming, planning and preliminaries
- Where there is insufficient information, the works are classed under a undefined provisional sum entitling the contractor to cost for prelim and an extension to the programme if required
How did you check that the items measured for the BOQ were accurate
- At RG we have a comp check system where upon completion, a joint review of the drawings is carried out by my senior colleagues to ensure all scope of work items are captured
- Junior colleagues assist with undertaking spot checks on the quantities to ensure these are accurate
What is NRM2
Detailed measurement for building works
- Provides a set of detailed measurement rules for the preparation of bulls of quantities
- The rules address all aspects production including guidance on the structure and format
What is a Preamble
- A preamble is an explanation of a document that is commonly found in contract, specifications and bills of quantities
- It can help with the interpretation of the document
What are method related charges
- A method related charge is a one-off item related to the method of carrying out the work and does not form part of the permanent works.
For example provision of temporary propping required for a weakened elevation of an existing building
What are time related charges
Time related charges are method related charges that are considered proportional to time taken to carry out the works for example plant hire
What are fixed charges
Fixed charges are method related charges that do not vary with time. For example service connection charges
