BOQ

BOQ stands for Bill of Quantities. It is a document used in the construction industry and other project-based industries to detail the work to be carried out by a contractor for a specified period. The BOQ itemizes all the materials and labor required for a project, providing quantities and unit rates. This allows for accurate cost estimation and tendering processes.

The purpose of a BOQ is multifaceted. It serves as a basis for contractors to prepare their bids, ensuring that all parties are pricing the same scope of work. It also helps in managing project costs by providing a benchmark against which actual expenses can be measured. Furthermore, the BOQ facilitates contract administration and claims management, as it clearly defines what is included in the contractor's price.

Typically, a BOQ is prepared by a quantity surveyor or cost consultant. It is structured with various sections, each covering a different trade or element of the project, such as earthworks, concrete, masonry, finishes, and services. Each item in the BOQ includes a description, a unit of measurement, the quantity, the rate, and the total amount. This detailed breakdown enables transparency and comparability between different tenders. Changes to the project scope during construction are often managed by preparing supplementary or remeasured BOQs to reflect the updated quantities and costs.