UNOPS engineers evaluent all specifications and contract documents related to the project and redige un devis quantitatif (Bill of Quantities, BoQ). We also advise architects and installers.
The BoQ contains the measured specific quantities of materials, parts and labor required to complete a construction project as identified in project drawings and specifications. It provides a standard basis for tendering contractors to price the work.
Definition
A bill of quantities is an essential document used in the construction industry. It provides a full description of the work to be done and is used as the basis for pricing by different contractors. It also helps to avoid any ambiguities or misunderstandings that may arise from different interpretations of the pricing and quantities.
A BOQ is typically prepared by a cost consultant or quantity surveyor, who will review the plans and specifications for the project and identify elements of the work that can be priced. This process is called taking off, and it can be performed using a variety of tools, including computer programs. Once the BOQ has been completed, it can be presented to the main contractor for pricing.
Various types of BOQ can be created depending on the project needs and requirements. For example, a preliminary BOQ can be prepared at an early stage in the design phase and provides a rough estimate of project costs. A final BOQ can be prepared at the end of the tendering process, and it can provide a more detailed and accurate representation of project requirements and costs.
The standard methodology for preparing a bill of quantities is usually set by the country or region in which it is being prepared. In the UK, for example, BOQs for general construction works were traditionally prepared in accordance with the Standard Method of Measurement 7th Edition (SMM7), which was functional until 1st July 2013 when it was replaced by a new standard, called the New Rules of Measurement.
Origin
The origin of bill of quantities dates back to 1802 when Scottish quantity surveyors produced the first method of measurement. In the same year they founded The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
The BOQ is usually issued as part of a tender for construction work. It consists of a description of the works and an itemized breakdown of the costs. The breakdown includes the materials and labour required for each individual work item. It also includes a list of the unit prices for each item of work and is usually presented in Excel format.
A BOQ can be used as a basis for comparing quotes from different contractors and is often an important tool in contract negotiations. It can help reduce cost overruns and claims by identifying items that require careful attention. It can also improve project delivery by ensuring that all work is done to the agreed specifications.
The research department at TRBA can prepare a precise and detailed quote for the project based on the specifications or on a bill of quantities that has been issued by an architect, external study bureau or public administration. The study of the project consists of designing the bridge to a detail level that will enable the establishment of a bill of quantities and possibly an estimate of its cost.
Meaning
A bill of quantities is a document that lists the materials, labour, and equipment needed for construction projects. It also includes their estimated cost. It is usually prepared by a quantity surveyor during the tendering process. This information is then used to solicit bids from contractors and negotiate prices with suppliers. It is also useful for estimating project costs and tracking construction progress.
A quality BOQ should be accurate and complete. The quantity surveyor will typically prepare it based on the project drawings and specifications. This will ensure that all tendering contractors use the same pricing information to price the work. It will also help the employer’s consultant compare tenderers’ overall costs and individual priced items.
Creating a BOQ involves several steps, including reviewing the plans and making a list of all required items. It should include a description of each item, its location in the project, and its dimensions. In addition, the bill of quantities should indicate a unit price for each item. This will allow the contractor to accurately calculate costs and avoid unforeseen expenses during the project. However, the process is time-consuming and requires a qualified quantity surveyor to create it.
Examples
In the context of construction projects, the preparation of a bill of quantities is an important step in the tendering process. It helps ensure accurate cost estimates, reduce disputes and claims, and improve project delivery. While there are several methods of preparing a BOQ, standardised standards are generally preferred as they provide consistency and reliability.
The main purpose of a BOQ is to identify the different types of works and their respective quantities. The document should be prepared by a quantity surveyor and form part of the contract documents. In addition, it should include preamble notes and descriptions.
For example, a BOQ may be used to identify the different types of work required in a new building project. The quantity surveyor would then prepare a price schedule and submit it to the client. This would then serve as the basis for the contractor’s bid.
Another way of preparing a BOQ is to use a computer program that provides pre-defined item categories, which are then populated with the different types of work. This approach makes it easier to prepare the BOQ and saves time. However, this method can lead to errors and omissions in the data. In addition, it can cause confusion between the information in the BOQ and the specifications document. This can result in incorrect pricing and inaccurate cost estimates.