Rate build-up template
Build a unit rate from labour, material, plant and other priced inputs, with quantities and source references.
by Jack Butler-Kettle · About 2 min readShare
How to use it
Use a consistent output unit. Record waste, productivity and the treatment of overhead and profit explicitly; keep supplier quotations dated.
Rate build-up template
Use a consistent output unit. Record waste, productivity and the treatment of overhead and profit explicitly; keep supplier quotations dated.
Free blank template for your own project. The completed example is shown below. No email address required.
View the completed example
Completed fictional example
Westhaven refurbishment · 14 October 2026 · Version 1.0
Rate build-up template
Scroll across if needed to read the whole record. A dash means no value has been entered.
| Output / resource | Quantity per output unit | Input unit | Unit cost (£) | Cost per output (£) | Source / assumption |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 m² partition / labour | 0.75 | hour | £30.00 | £22.50 | Labour cost L-01; assumed productivity 0.75 h/m² |
| 1 m² partition / board | 2.1 | m² | £8.00 | £16.80 | Supplier Q-14; includes 5% board waste |
| 1 m² partition / framing and fixings | 1 | set | £10.00 | £10.00 | Supplier Q-15 |
| 1 m² partition / plant allowance | 1 | m² | £1.70 | £1.70 | Hire allocation H-01 |
The example direct rate is £51.00/m² excluding VAT, overhead and profit. Add those separately where the pricing basis permits.
Understanding your results
The example direct rate is £51.00/m² excluding VAT, overhead and profit. Add those separately where the pricing basis permits.
How it works
The workbook provides blank working records. Grey cells calculate from the entered inputs; yellow cells are for your information. The completed example stays on this page.
Read the related guidance for the context and checks behind this template.
If you need help preparing or reviewing the project records, our quantity surveying services explain the tasks available under a separate appointment. Agree the deliverable, responsibilities and required specialist input before work starts.