Introduction to Quantity Surveying

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from the Quantity Surveying notes.

Quantity Surveying

Quantification/estimation of works for a construction project and costing them; focused on controlling and managing construction costs.

Quantity Survey

A schedule of quantities of all items of work in a construction project.

Quantity Surveyor

A trained professional in quantification, costing, and contract procedures; an expert in costing building work at all stages.

Bills of Quantities (BOQ)

A document listing quantities of all items of work to be carried out in a project.

Cost Planning

The process of forecasting and controlling costs throughout design and construction.

Life Cycle Costing

A costing approach that considers all costs of ownership over a project’s life.

Tendering

The process of bidding for a project by preparing and submitting bids.

Tender Documents

Documents provided to bidders for bidding, including invitations, drawings, specifications, and BOQ.

Roles of a Quantity Surveyor

Key duties: prepare BOQs, estimate costs at all stages, cost planning, evaluate tenders, certify payments, prepare final accounts, tender documents, and advise on contract form.

Data Required for an Estimate

Drawings, specifications, rates, and other information needed to prepare an estimate (dimensions, quantities, labor rates, transport costs).

Drawings

Complete, dimensioned plans, elevations, sections and details used to visualize and construct the project.

Ground Floor Plan

Plan showing the layout of the building at ground level.

Roof Plan

Plan showing the structure and layout of the roof.

Specifications

Written stipulations describing construction methods, workmanship standards, and the kinds and quality of materials.

General Specifications

Broad descriptions of the nature, quality, and class of work and materials across the project.

Detailed Specifications

Itemized descriptions detailing quantities, materials, proportions, and methods for each work item.

Rates

Unit prices used to estimate costs, including materials, labor, transport, and wages.

Cost Estimate

Quantitative assessment of the likely costs to complete the project, with basis, assumptions, and exclusions.

Price, Cost, Value

Price is what you pay for goods/services; cost is the total input/resources used; value is the payment for a completed deliverable.

Working Drawings

The actual construction drawings with precise measurements and how components fit together.

Contract Documents

All documents attached to the agreement that form part of the contract (e.g., invitation, bidding documents, general/special conditions, drawings, specifications, BOQ).

Contract System

The method of awarding the project: single contract or multiple separate contracts; each has advantages and risks for the owner.