Summary of Bill of Quantities (Civil Works)
A bill of quantities (BOQ) is a document used in tendering in the construction industry / supplies in which materials, parts, and labor (and their costs) are itemized.The bill of quantities (sometimes referred to as ‘BoQ’) is a document prepared by the cost consultant (often a quantity surveyor) that provides project specific measured quantities of the items of work identified by the drawings and specifications in the tender documentation.
It is one of the communication tool which connects the parties (Client, consultant & contractor) of construction project. Keith defines, BOQ is a schedule which categories, details and quantifies the materials and other cost items to be used in construction project. It is important to know that, direct costs & indirect costs are to be considered for complete cost of the project which are covered in different parts of the BOQ.
Importance of BOQ
BOQ shall be used in every phase (pre-contract & post-contract) of the project but need of BOQ differs based on different contract agreements & project. The major usages are listed below.
- It provides basic idea of the project by giving the quantities to tenderers.
- It defines the extent of the work. (But it should be identified in line with drawings & specification as well).
- It gives estimated or anticipated contract sum. (very important to client)
- It provides a basis for valuation of variation. (Variation is to be discussed in detail).
