A Bill of Quantities in construction is the most important document in managing the project. You can say that it is the foundation of cost estimation and bidding. As a contractor and a quantity surveyor, you must know how to create a BOQ accurately. It makes a big difference if it is wrong. You will end up in over-budgeting and delays. So, it is better to prepare it smartly or get professional help.
Busy contractors usually hire experts for quantity takeoff services and get an accurate number of project items. This accuracy is important to complete the project within the allocated funds and timelines. If you are a beginner, you must understand all about the bill of quantities and how you should prepare it.
READ OUR BLOG TO UNDERSTAND THE BILL OF QUANTITIES IN CONSTRUCTION AND HOW IT IS PROCESSED!
What is a Bill of Quantities?
A Bill of Quantities is a detailed report that includes the right numbers of materials, labour, and tasks required to complete a construction project. You can say that the whole project is converted into small units. It provides detailed descriptions and quantities for every part of the work.
However, the BOQ provides multiple purposes:
- Provides accurate cost estimation
- Facilitates competitive tendering
- Provides a basis for payment
- Helps in project monitoring
This report follows a BOQ Format and is prepared by quantity surveyors. It helps to convert architectural and engineering drawings into items.
Types of BOQ
There are different types and methods of BOQ.
1. Firm BOQ
It is the most common type, with fixed quantities based on completed designs. Contractors and estimators estimate all the quantities. They deliver accurate Construction Estimating Services to clients based on a precise count of items.
2. Approximate BOQ
This type of BOQ is used when designs are complete. It consists of estimated quantities that are remeasured during the construction. This type provides flexibility for projects.
3. Lump Sum BOQ
This type of BOQ includes the cost of every item under one entry. It is suitable for smaller construction projects.
4. Elemental BOQ
It organises items by building elements. Such as walls, roofs, etc. It is best for cost planning and value engineering.
The BOQ Preparation Process
Phase 1: Initial Review and Organisation
The process starts with a detailed review of all the documents of the project. The plans are regarding MEP, structural, etc. So, it is very important to first understand the project scope and complexity before starting the counting.
However, the next thing is to organise the tasks. This includes deciding the right format and creating a sequence of work. Expert companies always organise the items according to trade.
Phase 2: Taking Off Quantities and Item Description
This is the most time-consuming part of the BOQ process. Experts carefully measure and calculate every quantity from the drawings. They have to judge the number of items through the project plans. It must be according to the local standards and rules.
- Today, quantity surveyors use modern software to extract quantities from digital models. It enhances accuracy and efficiency.
- Despite using software, a manual verification process remains crucial. It is important to catch errors and ensure the overall completeness of the take-off.
Every BOQ item must have a clear description that fully defines the required work. This description must include:
- Materials
- Dimensions and location
- Quality standards
- Any special requirements
- The description should be detailed. So that any competent contractor can understand exactly what is required.
- Applying the right units of measurement is necessary for clarity.
Phase 3: Final Review and Verification
Before the BOQ is finalised, you must perform a detailed review. Verify the process through the right process. This step is essential to ensure that:
- Nothing has been omitted.
- All quantities are accurate.
- Descriptions are clear.
- The document follows a logical structure.
Double-check the BOQ according to the plans and requirements. This checking can help you identify any issues in the calculations.
Best Practices for BOQ Preparation
Measurement and Documentation
Always follow the right local standard methods of measurement. Accuracy is important to prevent mistakes in the future.
Plus, it is essential to keep detailed records of how quantities were calculated. This documentation should include:
- All assumptions made.
- The calculation methods used.
- Specific references to drawings or specifications.
- This information is invaluable for answering questions or pricing variations later on.
Technology and Contingency
Use advanced BOQ Software for achieving advantages as compared to manual methods. It includes:
- Reduced calculation errors.
- Improved efficiency.
- Facilitation of easy updates and revisions.
It is also important to include contingencies. They must be clearly identified and implemented. Mostly, contractors fix the range of five to fifteen per cent. But this depends on factors like project complexity and the design.
Collaboration
Regular coordination with the design team is a must. Make sure that the BOQ is matched with the current design. Plus, it must also align with the changes.
It is a smart thing to involve quantity surveyors in the design process. This leads to more accurate BOQs, and one can control the cost easily.
Conclusion
A well-prepared Bill of Quantities is a must for contractors. It will help them deliver successful projects. Consider it as a base for precise cost estimation. Moreover, you can win construction bids and profitable contracts. However, new methods and technologies have transformed how BOQs are prepared. It is better to get professional help and complete your projects under budget.
