What does a bill of quantities look like?

A bill of quantities combines descriptions of work with units and quantities. A priced bill adds rates and amounts.

Its contractual effect depends on the contract. It does not automatically guarantee quantities or make every omission payable as extra work.

An item reference identifies the line. The description defines the work being priced. The unit states the measurement basis, such as metres, square metres or number.

Quantity multiplied by rate gives the item amount. A rate needs to cover the work described, including the stated inclusions.

A short description such as wall can conceal different materials, thicknesses and finishes. Reference the specification where needed.

Identify the drawings, revisions and measurement rules. Record assumptions about incomplete details and any work excluded from the measurement.

The RICS New Rules of Measurement include NRM 2 for detailed measurement of building works. The applicable method still needs to be agreed.

Our Quantity take-off and bill of quantities preparation establishes the document type and measurement basis before work starts.

A take-off records quantities measured from information. A bill structures measured work for pricing. A schedule of work describes the work, sometimes with fewer measured quantities.

These labels do not establish completeness. Check whether the document includes preliminaries, temporary works, attendances and other project-specific requirements.

A spreadsheet template can organise a bill, but it cannot decide scope or supply missing design information.

A BOQ is useful when consistent measured quantities will improve tendering or commercial control. It is not essential for every small job.

A defined schedule of works may be proportionate for a small refurbishment. Complex or repeated trade work may need a measured bill.

Check units, duplicate items, omitted areas and the drawing issue. Reconcile subtotals and distinguish provisional quantities or allowances.

Record how design revisions will be measured and priced. For tendering, issue the same basis to each bidder and track later clarifications.

For changes during delivery, the contract determines the valuation method. An existing bill rate may be relevant without automatically being the correct rate.

Identify the drawings and revisions, specification, trades and required output. State whether you need unpriced quantities, a bill for tendering or a priced estimate.

Explain the measurement rules and deadline, or ask for these to be agreed. Include known gaps and any required breakdown by building, floor or work package.

A fixed-fee measured work package covers an agreed document issue and output. Revised drawings and additional trades need an agreed scope change.

Provide scaled drawings, revision dates, specification, package boundaries and the intended use. Identify whether the deliverable must be measured only or also priced.

A measurement instruction does not supply missing design or establish contractual quantities without checking the agreed documents.