Bill of Quantities

Bill of Quantities - Definition

The Civil Engineering Standard Method of Measurement (CESMM) defines a bill of quantities as a list of items giving brief identifying descriptions and estimated quantities of the work comprised in a contract.

The purposes of bill of quantities

1. Tendering2. Valuation of interim certificates3. Valuation of variations4. Ordering of materials5. Reference during the construction – quality

and cost6. Construction planning and monitoring7. Sub-contractor quotation 8. Final accounts9. Cost analysis for future use

Primary Function of the bill of quantities

• The principle use is to obtain competitive tenders; for this purpose bills should be as standardized as possible in method of measurement, format and layout.

• Bill of quantities fully describe and accurately represent the works to be executed, including the obligations required of the contractor, and so provide a uniform basis for the preparation of competitive tenders.

Format of bill of quantities

(1) List of principal quantities

(2) Preamble to the bill of quantities

(3) Day work schedule, if required

(4) Work items, usually classified as in the CESMM

(5) Grand summary

BOQ Layout

Item

Nr.

Description Unit Qty Rate Amount

20

90

10

20

20

28

Example – Road Project

1 General items (as described in class A of the CESMM)

2 Earthworks3 Road works, foot paths and verges 4 Bridges 5 Road markings 6 Road signs7 Culverts8 Surface water drainage 9 Street lighting