Quantification & Costing Flashcards
(28 cards)
Can you explain the key differences between NRM1, NRM2, and NRM3 and when you would use each one?
NRM1 focuses on Cost Estimating and Cost Planning. I would use this in the EARLY stages of a construction project.
NRM2 focuses on the detailed measurement of building works. I would use this during the pre-tender stages of a project, specifically to compile a BoQ.
NRM3 focuses on the cost planning for building maintenance works. I would use this in the post construction phases.
How does the level of detail in cost estimates change as you progress through the RIBA Plan of Work 2020 stages?
It will increase.
What are the main differences between Gross Internal Area (GIA) and Net Internal Area (NIA), and why might a client want measurements in both?
Gross Internal Area encompasses the total enclosed space within a building and excludes internal partitions and services areas etc.
The Nett Internal Area includes the internal partitions and services areas and demonstrates the buildings total usable space.
A client may wish to see both measurements as GIA is generally used for cost estimating, planning and investment reports, whereas NIA allows them to see the total usable space in a building for future occupiers or tenants.
What are the main considerations when preparing cost estimates at RIBA Stages 0 and 1 when limited information is available?
I would first of all ensure that I was adopting the guidance set out in NRM1 when setting out my cost estimate.
I would then consider any site constraints or other elements which may impact the cost of the project.
I would also ensure that the clients key requirements remained the focus of the cost estimate and how these could best be achieved.
On the Cumberland Terrace scheme, you mentioned using CADMeasure 64. What other measurement tools have you used, and what are the advantages and limitations of digital measuring software?
I have not used other measurement tools myself, however I am aware of Revit and Blue Beam.
I would say the advantages of digital measuring software is the accuracy of it, it is also generally quicker compared to measuring on a drawing, it also allows for easier storage compared to physical drawings.
The limitations would be that it requires a certain technical ability to be able to use it as well as a certain standard of hardware to be able to run it. The cost for these software can also be expensive.
Explain how you would approach first principles estimating when limited cost data is available for specialist items.
First principles estimating followings the logic of material, labour, plant & equipment costs and the Overheads and Profit associated with these.
Therefore, to follow these principles, I would determine the quantity and price of the materials required,
Assess the time and skill level of the workforce needed,
Factor in any machinery and tools required for the job,
And add the Overheads and Profit a typical Main Contractor would charge for these items.
What is IPMS?
It stands for International Property Measurement Standards and is a globally recognised standard to ensure consistency in measuring.
What is the RICS Code of Measurement?
A professional standard established by the RICS to ensure consistency and guidance on measuring different types of buildings.
It is where you can find definitions and guidance on the use of GIA, NIA and GEA.
What is the difference between IPMS and RICS Code of Measurement?
IPMS is internationally recognised, whereas RICS Code of Measurement is predominantly a UK based standard, however may still be referred to in countries where RICS has a presence.
The measurement methodology differs in both, RICS Code of Measurement uses GIA, NIA and GEA,
Whereas IPMS uses IPMS 1, 2 and 3 which refine external and internal definitions.
What is GIA?
Gross Internal Area.
It is the total internal floor space of a building to the internal face of the external wall and includes all usable areas.
What is NIA?
Nett Internal Area.
Refersto the usable space within a building measured to the internal face of internal partitions.
It excludes stairwells, service rooms and structural elements.
What is GEA?
Gross External Area.
Refers to the total footprint of the building measured to the external face of the external walls.
It includes all enclosed spaces, such as service areas,
But excludes open areas, such as balconies, fire escapes and covered walkways.
Why would you as a Quantity Surveyor need to know the difference between GIA and NIA of a building?
GIA is generally used for cost metrics on the construction of a building by clients, such as cost per square meter or foot.
A client may wish to know the NIA to calculate rental valuations of the usable space to dictate their investment decisions.
What are the JCT Valuation Rules?
They govern how variations and changes to a project are valued to ensure fairness and consistency.
The key principles are,
Contract rates if the variation includes works similar to existing contract items then the original rates will apply.
If the variation introduces work under a different condition, fair rates and prices must be used which are reflective of the current day market.
If the variation cannot be valued using contract rates, it may be priced based on actual labour, materials and equipment costs.
What section refers to Settlement of Disputes in the JCT Design & Build?
Section 9.
Article 8 sets out the provisions for Adjudication,
Article 9 sets out the provisiongs for Arbitration.
For the specialist edge protection at Bentall Centre Car Park, walk us through your process of reviewing the manufacturer’s quotation. What exclusions or qualifications did you need to consider?
I approached 3 specialist manufacturers to provide quotations for the proposed system.
The exclusions I considered were the installation costs of the product as it was a potential that not all manufacturers could provide costs for these.
To address this, I requested each manufacturer provide their supply costs and installation costs separately if they were able to provide both.
This provided a comprehensive breakdown of their costs.
On the Great Portland Street project, you identified that quantities in the contractor’s quotation were high. What specific measurements did you take to verify this, and how did you approach the conversation with the contractor?
I referred to the contract drawings which had been used by the contractor to provide their quotation and measured the areas in accordance with the RICS Code of Measurement.
I laid the build up to my measurements in a finishes schedule and discussed this with the contractor verbally where we reached an agreement that their quantities would be revised to reflect mine.
You mentioned value engineering on the Great Portland Street project. Can you provide specific examples of cost-saving measures you recommended and how you quantified the potential savings?
An item I highlighted in this cost plan as a potential VE item was the entrance glazing.
The scope was to increase the quantity of glazing into the entrance foyer to create a more impressive space.
Whilst the cost for the works associated with increasing the glazing did not exceed the budget, I suggested to the client that the quantities or specification of these could be reviewed if savings were required.
When conducting site visits for interim valuations, what specific evidence do you look for to verify the completion percentage claimed by contractors?
I review all items of work which they’re claiming for and ensure that these have been undertaken in line with there claim.
I review the percentage claim by breaking down the item by a metric, such as per floor, per room, per elevation, per sqm etc.
How do you ensure fairness when applying JCT Valuation Rules to variations, balancing the interests of both the client and contractor?
I ensure that all variations are properly recorded included the reason for change, scope associated with the change and the cost implications.
This helps to ensure clear and accurate communication.
I then apply the JCT Valuation Rules to the change and follow that process in a timely manor.
If a contractor disagrees with your valuation, what steps do you take to resolve the dispute while maintaining professional relationships?
Initially, I would call to discuss this with them to see if we could resolve the matter quickly,
If we could not, I would request they send over a breakdown of what they disagree with.
I would then check my assessment of the works to ensure I had valued them correctly and fairly.
I would then issue my response to the contractor and ask for their agreement.
Should the dispute continue, I will refer to Section 8 in the JCT.
How do you manage client expectations when your cost estimates indicate that their budget is insufficient for their desired scope?
I set out the items which are particularly expensive and would request a call with the client to discuss these.
Depending on the outcome of that call, I would advise that value engineering options could be undertaken with the design team.
I would schedule in some value engineering meetings accordingly.
Scenario: Your client wants to significantly accelerate a project schedule which will require additional resources from the contractor. How would you quantify and advise on the cost implications?
I would refer to Schedule 2, Section 4 of the JCT and request the contractor provide their proposals.
I would then assess these proposals in line with clause 5 of the JCT and provide my analysis to the client.
Scenario: You discover a significant measurement error in a previous valuation that has resulted in an overpayment to the contractor. What steps would you take to address this situation?
I would notify the client and the contractor and provide my evidence of the error accordingly.
On the basis that all parties agree with the assessment and that there had been an overpayment, I would then consider which options would be best to follow for the repayment of these funds.
This could potentially be a Pay Less Notice for the next payment cycle, or a bespoke repayment term agreed with the contractor by reducing the future payments.
