Source: https://www.quantsurv.com/resources/glossary/quantum
Content format: Markdown version of the public page.
Content reviewed: 2026-09-30

# Quantum: definition and example

The money side of a claim: how much is owed, rather than whether it is owed.

By [Jack Butler-Kettle](<https://www.quantsurv.com/about#who-we-are>) · Updated 30 September 2026

Guidance for England and Wales. Check the contract, amendments and facts that apply to your job.

## What it means in practice

Quantum is the amount of a claim. It should be distinguished from entitlement, which asks whether a right to payment exists. A sound calculation explains quantities, rates, periods and adjustments, with records supporting each input and no duplicated amounts.

Keep assumptions visible and separate agreed from disputed figures. [Final account recovery](<https://www.quantsurv.com/final-accounts/services/final-account-recovery>) can help reconcile the valuation and the remaining balance.

## Worked example

### The facts

A subcontractor claims £4,000 for additional work priced from labour and materials.

### What happens

1.  It checks the calculation against time records, invoices and the applicable valuation rules.
    
2.  It removes an item already included in an earlier agreed variation.
    

### What this shows

Improving the calculation establishes a clearer amount, but does not independently prove the right to recover it.