National Diploma Quantity Surveying

UNESCO
UNESCO-NIGERIA TECHNICAL &

VOCATIONAL EDUCATION
REVITALISATION PROJECT-PHASE
PROJECT II
NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN
QUANTITY SURVEYING
INTRODUCTION TO MEASUREMENT
COURSE CODE:
CODE QUS 101
YEAR I - SE MESTER I
THEORY/MEASUREMENT
www.TechnicalBooksPdf.com
GENERAL OBJECTVES:
1.0 Understand the history of Quantity

Surveying
2.0 Understand the duties and functions of a

Quantity Surveying
3.0 Know standard method of Measurement of

building works
4.0 Understand in detail the knowledge of

Measurement
TABLE OF CONTENTS
General Objectives
1.0 History of quantity surveying and the duties of the quantity surveyor
1.1 Roots in Britain
1.2 Development of the Standard Method of measurement
1.3 History of quantity surveying in Nigeria
1.4 The Nigerian standard method of measurement
1.5 Recent developments in quantity surveying
1.6 Duties of the quantity surveyor
2.0 The role of the various professionals in the construction process
2.1 The quantity surveyor
2.2 The Architect
2.3 The structural, services and building engineer
2.4 The civil engineer
2.5 Professional bodies and regulatory bodies
3.0 The Standard Method of Measurement
3.2 The Building and Engineering Standard Method of Measurement
3.3 General rules
4.0 Building and engineering standard method of measurement general rules I
4.1 Quantities
4.2 Descriptions
4.3 Framing work item descriptions
4.4 Drawn information
4.5 Catalogues and standard components
4.6 Fixing base and backgrounds
4.7 Procedure when inadequate information is provided
4.8 Symbols and abbreviations
5.0 Building and engineering standard method of measurement general rules II
5.1 Cross referencing
6.0 Building and engineering standard method of measurement general rules III
6.1 Cross referencing
7.0 Measurement procedures
7.1 Taking-off
7.2 Descriptions
7.3 Spacing of dimensions
8.0 Applied Mensuration I
8.1 Introduction
9.0 Applied Mensuration II
9.1 Relationship between shapes and building measurement
10.0 Centre line girth I
10.1 Introduction
11.0 Centre line girth II
11.1 Rectangular plan with recess
12. Centre line girth III
12.1 More complex shapes
13. BESMM3 Rules for Excavation and Earthworks I
13.1 Work Group D - Groundwork
14. BESMM3 rules for Excavation and earthworks II
14.1 Classification rules
15. BESMM3 Rules for Excavation and earthworks III
15.1 More classification rules
WEEK 1: HISTORY OF QUANTITY SURVEYING & DUTIES OF
THE QUANTITY SURVEYOR
1.1 Roots in Britain
The Quantity Surveying profession has its root in Britain during the 17th century although the
earliest recorded firm, Henry Cooper and Sons of Reading was established in 1785. The first
recorded use of the term “quantity surveyor” was in 1858.
Clients or building owner employed architects were

EARLY DAYS
employed to design and erect buildings
Architects employed master craftsmen to carry out work
in each trade
Costs were not agreed at initial stage and craftsmen
submitted accounts on completion of work
Master craftsmen engaged measurers or surveyors to

IN TIME
prepare accounts
Disagreements arose as quantities claimed far exceeded
the measured finished work
Architects engaged their own measurers to contest the
claims of the master craftsmen
Building owners had their work executed under contract

CONTRACT SYSTEM
Tenders were called for before work was undertaken
Contract sums therefore had to be agreed before work
commenced on site
System of building procurement gained strength
INDUSTRIAL
REVOLUTION Advent of the general contractor who submitted
inclusive estimates covering all the trades
Full drawings and specifications were prepared before
tenders were called for
Contractors tendered in competition with one another
based on the full drawings and specifications
THE BILL OF The only way to prepare an accurate estimate cost or

QUANTITIES
tender is to measure the quantities of all the labour and
materials necessary to complete the works – in other
words, preparing a “bill of quantities”.
Initially each builder prepared his own bills of quantities

for each project, later it was considered more
economical for all of them as a group to employ one
surveyor to measure the quantities for them all.
The cost of engaging the surveyor was shared
They would obtain an identical bill of quantities
ensuring that all contractors were pricing and tendering
on the same basis.
The client employed his own surveyor to work with the
contractors’ surveyor and protect his interests
THE
With time, the building owner found it to be to his own
INDEPENDENT advantage to appoint and pay the fees of the quantity
QUANTITY surveyor.
SURVEYOR
This was the origin of the independent and impartial quantity surveyor as it is found today.
1.2 Development of the Standard Method of Measurement
Up to the middle of the nineteenth century, it was the practice to measure and value
the building work after it had been completed and bills of quantities were not
prepared.
Dispute points in connection with building works were decided by the Surveyor’s
Institution and the Quantity Surveyors’ Association.
The frequency with which they were called to decide on areas of conflict pointed at
the necessity of achieving greater accuracy of work and uniformity of method.
1802 A number of Scottish quantity surveyors met to produce the

first method of measurement
A Joint Committee was set up comprising, six surveyors and

1918
four contractors to draw up a comprehensive set of Standard
Rules of Measurement of Building Works.
In 1922, the first edition of the Standard Method of

1922
Measurement (SMM 1) was thus published.
1927 - 1998 Subsequently, revisions were made and other editions were
published the most current for measurement of building works
being the 7th edition (SMM 7). First published in 1988 and a
revised edition in 1998.
1.2.1 Standard Methods of Measurement for Other Classes of Work
1.2.1.1 Civil Engineering Works
The 3rd Edition of the Civil Engineering Standard Method of

1991
Measurement (CESMM3) for use in the measurement of civil
engineering works was produced by a joint committee under the
auspices of the Institution of Civil Engineers and the Federation
of the Federation of Civil Engineering Contractors of Britain.
1.2.1.2 Industrial and Process Engineering Works
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors published the

Standard Method of Measurement of Industrial Engineering
Construction, SMMIEC which is used in the measurement of
heavy and process engineering works.
1.3 History of Quantity Surveying in Nigeria

Quantity Surveying originated in Great Britain and was imported into Nigeria by the British
who colonised Nigeria. It can be implied that the first set of quantity surveyors who practised
in Nigeria were British citizens.
The first set of Nigerian quantity surveyors trained in Britain in

the early 50s
This set of Nigerian quantity surveyors started returning to
Nigeria in the 60s
By 1968 enough of them had returned to enable them set up an
association to develop the practice of the profession in Nigeria.
Thus, the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) was
founded in 1969.
Mr. Victor Akan is recorded as the first Nigerian Quantity

Surveyor
The first recorded Nigerian owned quantity surveying firm was
founded in 19 .
Soon after its formal set up, the Institute initiated efforts for the
TRAINING IN
NIGERIA education and training of quantity surveyors in Nigerian tertiary
institutions.
Ahmadu Bello University was the first university to start
running the degree programme in 1971 graduating its first set in
1974.
Auchi Polytechnic was the first polytechnic to commence the
diploma programme in quantity surveying in .
GOVERNMENT The government of Nigeria is the largest client of the profession

RECOGNITION Government recognised the quantity surveying profession as
one of the scheduled professions in 1978 under the Regulated
and other Professions Act.
Decree 31 of 1986 and CAP 383 LFRN 1991 gave legal
backing to the quantity surveying profession and also set up the
Quantity Surveyors’ Registration Board of Nigeria to regulate
the profession
Practice of the profession of quantity surveying in Nigeria is

PRACTICE IN
NIGERIA along the same pattern as in Britain and other commonwealth
countries.
The standard methods of measurement published in Britain are
largely in use in Nigerian practices starting with the fifth edition
of the SMM for building works and the second edition of the
CESMM.
1.4 The Nigerian Standard Methods of Measurement
The first edition of the Nigerian Standard method was produced
1988 by the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors

It and was titled Standard Method of Measurement of Building
Works and Services (SMMBWS)
The second edition was produced and it now encompassed rules

2002
for the measurement of both building and engineering works
Title changed to Building and Engineering Standard Method of
Measurement 2 (BESMM2)
The current edition was produced titled Building and

2008
Engineering Standard Method of Measurement 3 (BESMM3)
1.5 Recent Developments in Quantity Surveying
The practice of the profession of quantity surveying has evolved dramatically starting from
the 1970s from that of measurement and valuation to cover much wider areas of expertise in
the procuring and management of various types of construction projects. This evolution has
come about as a result of changes in:
Construction markets
Construction industry
Clients’ needs
Professions
Advent of ICT
Today the quantity surveyor is the financial consultant to the construction industry and more,
providing services ranging from:
Cost management
Life cycle costing
Project management
Construction management
Procurement
Value management
Facilities management, etc
1.6 Duties of the Quantity Surveyor
1. Preliminary Cost Advice

The quantity surveyor gives practical advice on:
• The likely cost of the scheme – however complicated or unusual it may be.
• The comparative costs of alternative layouts, materials, components and methods of
construction.
• The likely duration of project.
• The likely cost of future maintenance and operating costs.
The quantity surveyor can, from the client’s brief, prepare a realistic budget and a cost plan
showing the distribution of costs over the various elements.
2. Cost Planning
Cost planning is a specialist technique used by quantity surveyor’s, which aims to help all
members of the design team to arrive jointly at practical and efficient designs for the project
and to keep within the budget. Once a realistic estimate is set from the cost plan, constant
monitoring reduces the risk of overspending by noting problem areas at an early stage and
applying prompt corrective action.
3. Contractual Methods
The quantity surveyor can advise on the best type of tendering and the best form of contract
that will best suit a specific project. The quantity surveyor prepares the documents for
obtaining the tenders and arranging the contract.
4. Bill of Quantities
Competitive tendering remains a common basis for selection of contractor and bills of
quantities are fundamental to the process. Bills translate the drawings into a document listing
in detail all the component parts required for a project so that each contractor can calculate
tender prices on exactly the same basis as his competitors.
During construction, the bill forms the basis for preparing interim valuations, pricing of
variations and effective cost control.
5. Choice of contractor
The quantity surveyor analyses tenders and makes recommendations to the client for
contractor selection after taking into consideration other factors such as the contractors
reputation and past performance.
6. Contract Administration
The quantity surveyor acts with the architect or engineer to ensure that the financial
provisions of the contract are properly interpreted and applied so that the client’s financial
interest is safeguarded and that the builder is paid the proper price for the work.
He also exercises control during construction so that the cost is not exceeded without
authority.
7. Valuation of construction work

The quantity surveyor prepares interim valuations, values variations and prepares financial
statements during construction. He will also settle the final accounts at project completion. He
may also prepare statements of expenditure for tax or accounting purposes and assess the
project’s replacement value for insurance purposes.
Other services of the quantity surveyor include:
8. Construction management
Construction management uses latest management techniques and other applications of
programming, network analysis, risk analysis, cash flow forecasting, budgeting and other
control mechanisms.
9. Building maintenance management

Building maintenance management involves planning, programming, controlling and costing
of maintenance and repair work.
10. Dilapidations
The quantity surveyor prepares schedule of conditions at the beginning of a tenancy or lease
and a schedule of dilapidations at the end giving details of an outgoing tenant’s liability.
11. Arbitration
This is a formal process for settling disputes
12. Facilities management

This involves all aspects of providing, operating, maintaining, developing and improving
facilities which are property where people are accommodated and work.
13. Contractor Organisations
The quantity surveyor may work in a contractor’s organisation.
The main function of the contractor’s quantity surveyor is to secure maximum payment for
work done by the contractor at the earliest possible time to avoid cash flow problems and to
maximise profits. These however have to be done within the provisions of the contract. The
contractor cannot receive more than he is entitled to by the contract.
In contrast with the consultant quantity surveyor who claims impartiality between the client
and the contractor, the contractor’s quantity surveyor will be representing his employer’s
interests alone. Wise contractors therefore always employ quantity surveyors to look after
their interests and in particular rely on them in the most controversial contractual areas.
The quantity surveyor working in a contractor’s organisation will therefore carry out the
following functions among others:
• For design and build contracts or civil engineering contracts, the quantity surveyor
works with other professionals in the contractor’s organisation to produce initial plans,
drawings and estimates for the project and helps to calculate the most economical way
to do the job.
• Prepares bills of quantities from which an estimation of the cost of a project can be
drawn up by the contractor
• Assessing the “quantity” of labour, materials and equipment required to complete the
project
• Follow the progress of the work to ensure that it is completed within budget
• Represents the contractor when interim valuations and final accounts are prepared
• Ensure that they receive the correct payment at the appropriate time for the work done
on site.
• Estimating and negotiation of new contracts.
• Site measurements for internal and external valuations, final accounts, cost and
bonusing, sub-contract payments and final accounts.
• Domestic subcontractor arrangements and accounts.
• Interpreting and progressing contractual issues and settlement of disputes and claims
• Prepare network analysis
• Prepare cash flow forecasts
• Assess cost of alternative designs of temporary works (preliminary items).
• Scheduling and monitoring of materials
• Plant control
• Reporting to management usually on a monthly basis on the overall financial state of

the contract giving comparisons of actual cost with the corresponding internal values
for the various cost centres and sub-trades.
WEEK 2: THE ROLE OF VARIOUS PROFESSIONALS IN THE
CONSTRUCTION PROCESS
2.1 The Quantity Surveyor
The quantity surveyor is essentially an expert on construction cost and construction contracts
whose prime task is to ensure that the project is kept within budget and that the client gets
value for money. Although the quantity surveyor is employed by the client and is part of the
architect’s team, he must have a close relationship with the contractor during construction. He
must ensure that in his valuations of payments due to the contractor, he remains impartial to
both the client and the contractor and so produce harmony in his role as project accountant.
2.1.1 Pre-contract stage
The quantity surveyor:
• Gives preliminary cost advice
• Prepares cost plans
• Advises on contractual methods
• Prepares bills of quantities and other tender documents
• Analyses tenders and makes recommendations for contractor selection.
2.1.2 Post-contract period
• The quantity surveyor works with the architect or engineer to ensure that the financial
provisions of the contract are properly interpreted and applied so that the client’s
financial interest is safeguarded and that cost is not exceeded without authority.
• He prepares interim valuations
• Values variations
• Evaluates all financial claims made by the contractor who is allowed to be present at
such times so that agreement is ensured and disputes are avoided
• He also prepares financial statements that keep the client informed as to the running
cost of the project.
2.1.4 Completion
• He prepares the final account, again, with the assistance of and in agreement with the
contractor.
2.2 The Architect
The architect is regarded as the leader of the building team. However, project managers and
other professionals are currently taking over this traditional role. He often receives the
commission to design and supervise the construction of the building.
The complexities of modern construction require specialised knowledge, which no architect

can provide. He therefore requires the assistance of specialists such as structural engineers to
design the structural frame, mechanical engineers to design the M&E services and quantity
surveyors to advice on cost and contractual aspects. He will also need advice on ground
investigations, landscaping etc.

• He determines the client’s requirements for a project, which is known as ‘the client’s
brief’. If the client is unsure of what he wants, the architect can help in formulating
this brief.
• Prepares the preliminary designs based on the brief with inputs from quantity
surveyors on comparative costs of alternative design proposals and from consulting
structural and service engineers on aspects of complex buildings.
• After approval from the client, he produces detailed architectural designs while the
engineers produce detailed structural and service designs and the quantity surveyor
produces a cost plan based on which he ‘cost checks’ to keep costs within client’s
budget.
• Prepares working drawings
• Decides which aspects of the work are to be carried out by nominated subcontractors
and suppliers.
When design is completed:
• He obtains all necessary planning approvals
• Calls for tenders from suitable contractors either based on a bill of quantities or other
contractual arrangement.
• He receives the tenders and advises the client on selection of contractor usually based
on quantity surveyor’s recommendation.
2.2.2 Post-contract stage

During construction, the architect:
• Supervises the work, ensuring that the contractor keeps to the design and specification
• Chairs site meetings, which are held regularly on site where problems and difficulties
are discussed and resolved.
• Issues instructions to the contractor in relation to the work execution and any
variations required.
• Certifies stage payments to the contractor
• Keeps the client informed of progress on site.
2.2.3 Completion
At the end of the project the architect issues:
• The certificate of practical completion
• The certificate of making good defects usually six months after practical completion
• The final certificate not later than two months after the end of the defects liability
period.
2.3 The Structural, Services & Building Engineers
On large complex building projects the architect will recommend to the client the
employment or appointment of consulting engineers, usually specialist in structural work and
mechanical and electrical services.

• The engineer prepares designs and specifications within the scope of their specialist
fields advising the architect on the ‘buildability’ of his concepts. For instance, the
structural or building engineer must ensure structural stability with economy in mind
and avoidance of obstruction by structural members and also assist in producing a
logical and systematic construction process.
• He may be required to obtain, check and recommend quotations from specialist

subcontractors in his speciality area.
2.3.2 Post-contract
• During construction, the consulting engineers assist the architect by supervising their
specialist area of the work, modifying or re-designing work as may become necessary.
2.4 The Civil Engineer

These are specialists in civil engineering design and construction. In civil engineering
contracts they assume the leadership role in the design and construction team. Like architects
in building contracts they may require the inputs of other consultants, such as architects,
quantity surveyors, service engineers etc.
2.5 Professional Bodies and Regulatory Bodies
2.5.1 Who is a professional?
A professional is an individual who engages in a field of endeavour requiring specialised

education, knowledge and skills and who is a member of a self-regulatory body having
legislated authority to regulate its members when carrying out activities within a specified
field of endeavour.
The professional holds himself or herself out as an expert in a specified field. The person
must have the training, skills and experience to back up such a claim.
2.5.2 Professional and Regulatory Bodies
Professionals usually come together to form associations to protect members and advance
their interests. Governments on the other hand seek to regulate professions in a bid to protect
members of the public in relation to the activities of the professionals.
In some countries, the government allows the professional groups self-regulation whereas in
others, the government sets up a government agency that has the responsibility of regulating
the practice of the profession in that country.
COUNTRY PROFESSIONAL BODY REGULATORY BODY
United Kingdom Royal Institution of Chartered Royal Institution of Chartered

Surveyors (RICS) Surveyors (RICS)
Hong Kong Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors Surveyors’ Registration Board,

(HKIS) Hong Kong
Malaysia Institution of Surveyors Malaysia (ISM) Board of Quantity Surveyors

Malaysia
Singapore Singapore Institute of Surveyors’ and

Valuers (SISV)
Australia Australian Institute of Quantity

Surveyors (AIQS)
South Africa Association of South African Quantity

Surveyors (ASAQS)
Kenya The Architectural Association of Board of Registration of

Kenya, Chapter of Quantity Surveyors Architects and Surveyors in
Kenya
Nigeria Nigerian Institute of Quantity Quantity Surveyors’ Registration
Surveyors (NIQS) Board Of Nigeria (QSRBN)
2.5.3 The Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS)
The Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors was founded in 1969 by Nigerians who had
trained, qualified and practised quantity surveying in the United Kingdom but who returned to
Nigeria and felt the need to develop the profession in Nigeria.
The regulated and other Provisions) Act of 1978 recognised quantity surveying as one of the
scheduled professions. Decree No. 31 of 1986 gave legal backing and recognition to the
quantity surveying profession and also established the Quantity Surveyors Registration Board
of Nigeria (QSRBN) to regulate the profession.
The vision of the NIQS is “To be the profession in Nigeria responsible for total cost and
procurement management, for the achievement of client’s objectives in all types of capital
projects and developments, from conception to commissioning and maintenance, in all sectors
of the economy, for the attainment of sustainable national development and goals.”
The aims and objectives of the institute are:
(a) To promote the science and practice of the quantity surveying profession in all its
ramifications.
(b) To provide a platform or forum for meeting and discussing matters of mutual interest
to quantity surveyors in Nigeria and to preserve and further the interest of quantity
surveyors.
(c) To promote and stimulate the improvement of the technical and general knowledge of
persons engaged in the profession of quantity surveying.
(d) To organise continuing education and professional training of those seeking to become
professional quantity surveyors and assist and procure its members to be registered by
the QSRBN.
(e) To undertake research study and to collate information from any quantity surveying
bodies from any part of the world on the latest developments and technologies in the
practice of quantity surveying and to make available such information to its members.
(f) To cooperate with the QSRBN in training of quantity surveyors and regulating and
controlling the practice of quantity surveying in Nigeria.
(g) Generally to disseminate information and promote understanding of quantity

surveying among members of the public and to cooperate with other professional
bodies in Nigeria.
(h) The maintenance of the highest standards of discipline and professional conduct.
The services offered by the quantity surveyor include:
(a) Feasibility studies of capital projects (h) Facilities management

(b) Cost modelling (i) Direct labour project
procurement and management
(c) Contract documentation and procurement (j) Arbitration
(d) Contract administration and management (k) Expert witness
(e) Monitoring of capital projects (l) Fire insurance assessment
(f) Preparation of cost reports, pricing of bills etc (m) Dilapidation
(g) Project management
Other Professional and Regulatory Bodies in the Nigerian Construction Industry
2.5.4 The Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB)

The NIOB was founded in 1967 as the first overseas centre of the Chartered, Institute of
Building (CIOB), UK. The NIOB gained autonomy from CIOB in May 1970 and gained its
statutory backing in 1989 by the Builders’ (Registration etc) Decree No. 45 of the Federal
Govt. of Nigeria.
The vision of the NIOB is to provide Nigeria with the profession that will be responsible for
the complete construction of new buildings, maintenance of existing buildings and building
production management utilising high standards of practice and provide modern and
appropriate construction techniques with more emphasis on improved training, safety, quality
and value management for the benefit of the fatherland.
2.5.5 Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON)
CORBON was established by Builders’ (Registration etc.) Decree No. 45 of 1989 to control
and regulate the practice of the Building Technology profession in all its aspects and
ramifications.
Statutorily, a professional builder cannot practice the profession in Nigeria unless he/she is
registered with CORBON and remains registered throughout his/her professional career.
2.5.6 The Nigerian Institute of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV)

NIESV was founded in 1969 and was registered as a non-profit corporate body under the
Land (Perpetual Succession) Act of 1924. It gained formal government recognition in 1975 in
the promulgation of the Estate Surveyors and Valuers’ (Registration etc.) Decree Number 24
of 1975. This decree established the Estate Surveyors and Valuers’ Registration Board of
Nigeria, ESVARBON, as a corporate body empowered to regulate the profession of Estate
Surveying and Valuation in Nigeria.
2.5.7 The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE)

The NSE was founded in 1958 and is the national umbrella organisation for the engineering
professions in Nigeria. Engineers Registration Decree No. 55 of 1970 established Council for
the regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN). All the disciplines of the profession as
currently practiced in Nigeria are duly catered for. Some of the disciplines are organised as
divisions of the society to enhance individual career development.
Thirteen divisions have been duly recognised:
Aeronautical
Agricultural
Chemical
Civil
Electrical
Environmental
Geotechnical
Industrial
Mechanical
Metallurgical
Petroleum
Structural
Association of Professional Women Engineers in Nigeria (APWEN)
The objective NSE is to promote the advancement of engineering education, research and
practice in all its ramifications. This is with a view to maintaining and enhancing the
professional capabilities of its members so as to better equip them to fulfil the needs of the
profession for the good of the public and the nation.
2.5.8 The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors

RICS can its history right back to 1792 when the Surveyors Club was formed. The
foundations of the current modern organisation however started to take shape when 20
surveyors met at Westminster Palace Hotel in London, UK under the Chairmanship of John
Clutton. He was later elected the first president of the Institution of Surveyors.
The Institution of surveyors later became the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
and has evolved into the pre-eminent organisation of its kind in the world. Today the RICS
remains the premier institution for quantity surveyors in the world. In terms of construction
professional bodies in the UK, the RICS is by far the largest and the most influential with a
total membership of over 100,000.
The key requirements expected from the RICS are:
• Improving education and entry level to respond to challenges likely to be met by
individuals and firms
• Change from protectionism to facilitator
• Provide leadership in a fragmented construction industry
• Accept that it is the commercial world that is the leading edge but use its position and
authority to influence and create and spot trends
• Reflect the need for individuals to remain champions of property and fairness and
uphold the charter
• Constantly upgrade professional skills, business skills and knowledge to a level which
is envied by other professionals
• Promote the benefits of employing a chartered surveyor so that the currency value of
belonging to the RICS is as high as possible
• Improve communications and develop the single profession culture among its
members
WEEK 3: THE STANDARD METHOD OF MEASUREMENT
Definition
The standard method of measurement is a document that sets out the rules for the
measurement and description of construction works.
Purpose
Its main purpose is to provide a uniform basis for measuring construction work. When bills of
quantities are prepared based on a particular standard method of measurement, all the parties
concerned are aware of what is included, assumed or not included. All contractors tendering
therefore tender on the same basis and their tenders can easily be evaluated and compared.
3.2 Building and Engineering Standard Method of Measurement 3 (BESMM 3)
The BESMM3 is made up of two main parts. The measurement and description rules in each
part are grouped under main headings as follows:
PART ONE (BUILDINGS AND THE LIKE)
1A Preliminaries/General Conditions
C Existing site/Buildings/Services
D Ground work
E In situ concrete/Large pre-cast concrete
F Masonry
G Structural carcassing metal/timber
H Cladding/Covering
J Waterproofing
K Linings/Sheathing/Dry Partitioning
L Windows/Doors/Stairs
M Surface finishes
N Furniture/Equipment
P Building fabric sundries
Q Paving/Planting/Fencing/Site furniture
R Disposal systems
X Transport systems
Y Mechanical and electrical services measurement
PART TWO (CIVIL, INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING WORKS AND THE LIKE)
2A General items
C Demolition and site clearance
D Ground work
E In situ concrete/Large pre-cast concrete
G Metalwork and timberwork
Q Paving – Highways
X Transport systems
The section preceding the two chapters contains general rules guiding the use of the standard
method. These rules need to be properly understood by the student before commencing actual
measurement and will therefore be treated studied in detail in for the next three weeks.
For this course we shall be treating the general rules covering the measurement and
description of building works only.
General Rules Introduction
The Bill of Quantities (BOQ) should contain all the items of cost required to complete a
construction project. The bill should therefore fully describe and accurately represent the
quantity and quality of the works to be carried out. Carefully following the rules prescribed in
the Standard Method of Measurement should ensure this.
The use of the SMM will be studied under the following headings:
Tabulated Rules
Quantities
Descriptions
Drawn Information
Fixing, base and background
Procedure when inadequate information is provided
Symbols and abbreviations
Cross referencing
Tabulated Rules
The rules of the BESMM3 are set out in tables. Rules covering each work group or section are
set out under three headings:
Information to be provided
Classification tables
Supplementary rules
The horizontal lines divide the classification tables and supplementary rules into zones to
which different rules apply. Fig 1 shows a typical page from the BESMM3.
C90 Alterations – spot Items
INFORMATION PROVIDED MEASUREMENT RULES DEFINITION RULES COVERAGE RULES SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
P1 The following information is shown either on location drawings under 1A Preliminaries/General conditions M1 The rules within this D1 Materials arising from C1 Shoring and scaffolding S1 Method of operation, where by
or on further drawings which accompany the bills of quantities: section apply to works in alterations – spot items incidental to the work and making specific means
(a) the scope and location of the work relative to the existing layout indicating the existing structure existing buildings as are the property of the good all work disturbed is deemed
defined in the General rules Contractor unless to be included within each item S2 Setting aside and storing materials
otherwise stated remaining the property of the Employer
M2 any operation to C2 Alterations – spot items are or those for re-use
existing buildings involving D2 Location is stated deemed to include:
removal of existing relative to the existing (a0 disposal of the materials other S3 Employer’s restrictions on methods
materials (other than for building than those remaining the property of disposal of materials
bonding purposes or of the Employer or those for re-use
renewal) is measured within (b) work incidental to alterations – S4 Employer’s restrictions on methods
this Section spot items which is at the of shoring and scaffolding to be used
discretion of the Contractor
(c) all new fixing or joining
materials required
CLASSIFICATION TABLE
1 Removing 1. Details Item 1. Making good structures
components, fittings sufficient for
and fixtures identification 2. Extending and making
stated good finishes
2. Removing plumbing
and engineering 2. Dimensioned 3. Inserting new work, details
installations description stated
sufficient for
3. Removing finishing identification 4. Toxic/Hazardous materials,
including type and type stated
4. Removing coverings thickness of
existing building
5. Cutting openings or
recesses
6. Cutting back
projections
7. Cutting to reduce
thickness
8. filling openings
9. Temporary roads 1. Dimensioned tem 1 Providing and erecting
description
10 Temporary screens 2. maintaining, duration state
Fig 1
Information to be provided
This section ensures that details about the work at hand which the tenderer requires to make accurate
estimates are provided either in location drawings, bill diagrams, specifications or preambles as the
case may be.
E.g. E05 In-situ concrete states that the relative position of concrete members, size of members,
thickness of slabs and permissible loads in relation to casting time must be clearly shown on location
drawings or bill diagrams.
Classification Tables
This section has five columns. The fourth column from the left which contains units of measurement
is usually not referred to when cross-referencing. For this reason, the classification table is in some
texts said to have four columns.
Column 1 lists work items or processes commonly found in construction

works
Column 2 contains subdivisions of the items in column 1
Column 3 is even more specific as it gives a further breakdown of the

individual items contained in column 2
Unit of measurement column states the unit of measurement appropriate for each item or unit
of work
Column 4 contains more descriptive features that are meant to enhance the quality of the
descriptions of work built up from columns 1, 2 & 3
In building up a description for an item, one descriptive feature is taken from each of the first three
columns and as many as are applicable from the fourth column.
Supplementary Rules
The section on supplementary rules is made up of a further four columns namely:
Measurement rules
Definition rules
Coverage rules
Supplementary information
These rules are meant to guide the user of the SMM to properly measure the physical quantities and
to compose and phrase the work item descriptions appropriately.
Column 5 - Measurement Rules
These set out when work is to be measured and how the quantities are to be calculated. It states for
instance the voids in quantities that are to be deducted and those to be ignored, when to measure an
item separately or when to treat as part of some other item, etc.
Column 6 - Definition rules
These define the extent and limits of the work represented by a word or expression used in the rules
and in the bills prepared in accordance with the rules. For instance the expression “slabs” in relation
to in-situ concrete would include the slab itself and any beams attached to it and any column drop
heads also attached to it.
Suspended slab with attached beam & suspended slab with column drop heads
Column 7 – Coverage Rules
These draw attention to incidental items which are deemed to be included or excluded from the item
of work being measured. For instance, coverage rule C1 on page 50 states that bar reinforcement is
deemed to include hooks, tying wire, spacers and chairs. This means that the contractor in estimating
his cost for bar reinforcement should include the cost of any hooks, tying wires, spacers and chairs
that he may require for that item of work. These items will not be measured separately or mentioned
elsewhere in the bill.
Column 8 – Supplementary rules
These rules govern the information to be given in addition to the information given in accordance
with the classification rules. It may contain directives to measure an item separately as a different
work item. For instance, additional information is required by the supplementary rules in relation to
in-situ concrete suspended slabs on the kind and quality of materials to be used and their mix ratios.
WEEK 5: BESMM3 GENERAL RULES I
4.1 Quantities
Quantities of work are taken net, that is, as they will be when fixed in position in the building unless
the rules state otherwise. Dimensions used in calculating quantities are taken to the nearest 10mm. In
other words, measurements are taken to two places of decimal when calculating quantities.
When calculations have been completed, quantities are entered into the bills as whole unit with
decimal points rounded up to the nearest whole number. The exceptions are:
• Quantities measured in tonnes which are given to two places of decimal
• Quantities that are less than one unit which are always rounded up to one unit
4.2 Descriptions
Each measured item consists of a quantity and a description. As a general rule, where an item is
measured:
Volumetric/m3 No dimensions are required in the description

since the three dimensions of the item are used in
calculating the volume.
Superficial/m2 Two dimensions are used in calculating the area,

the third dimension should be stated in the
description
Linear/m One dimension is used for the quantity, the other

two dimensions should be stated in the
description
Enumerated/Nr or No. None of the dimensions are used in the quantity

column, therefore all three dimensions should be
stated in the description
4.3 Framing Work Item descriptions
In building up a description for an item, one descriptive feature is taken from each of the first three
columns and as many as are applicable from the fourth column. Headings of groups of items in the
SMM are read as part of the description.
Example 1:
Work item: Suspended in-situ concrete slab
Group heading: In situ concrete
Classification table:
Column 1: Rule 5 - Slabs
Column 2: Rule 2 – Thickness 150 – 450mm
Column 3: Non of the rules apply
Column 4: Rule 1 – Reinforced
Supplementary information:
Column 8: Rule 1 – mix details
Description should then read something like this:
In-situ concrete (1:2:4)
Slabs, thickness 150-450mm, reinforced
Cross reference or Coding: E05:5.2.0.1
Example 2:
Work item: Formwork to soffit of suspended slab
Group heading: Formwork for in-situ concrete
Column 1: Rule 8 – Soffits of slabs
Column 2: Rule 1 – Slab thickness ≤ 200mm
Column 3: rule 1 - Horizontal
Column 4: Rule 2 – Height to soffit 1.50m – 3.00m
Column 8: Non of the rules apply
Formwork to in-situ concrete
Soffit of slabs ≤ 200mm thick, horizontal, height to soffit 1.50 – 3.00m
Cross reference or Coding: E20: 8.1.1.2
Example 3:
Work item: Bar reinforcement in suspended slab
Group heading: Reinforcement for in-situ concrete
Column 1: Rule 1 - Bar
Column 2: Rule 1 – Nominal size stated
Column 3: Rule 1 - Straight
Column 4: Rule 1 – Horizontal length 12.00 – 15.00m
Supplementary information:
Column 8: Rule 1 – kind and quality of materials
Reinforcement to in-situ concrete
Mild steel bar reinforcement, 16mm diameter, straight horizontal length 12.00-15.00m
Cross reference or Coding: E30:1.1.1.1
4.4 Drawn Information
The SMM requires that the bills should be read in conjunction with drawings which are provided in
the form of location drawings, component drawings, dimensioned diagrams and schedules.
1. Location drawings include:
• Block plans which identify the site in relation to the town
• Site plans which show the position of construction in relation to setting out points, access to
the site and general site layout
• Plans, sections and elevations which show the various spaces and location of the principal
elements
2. Component drawings show information required for the manufacture and assembly of a
component
3. Dimensioned diagrams that show the space and shape of work items which may be used in a bill
of quantities in place of a dimensioned description
4. Schedules deemed to be drawings when they provide required information
4.5 Catalogues or standard components
A precise and unique cross-reference to a catalogue or standard specification can reduce or replace
the requirements for an item description or component drawing. For instance, a precise reference to a
British standard (BS) or Cope of Practice (CP) can take the place of a detailed description for a work
item.
4.6 Fixing, base and background
• Method of fixing is measured and described where necessary

• The SMM rules may require that the nature of each type of base be identified separately where
required
• Where it is required that the nature of background to which an item is to be fixed be identified
then the type of background shall be stated in the description of the item as follows:
(a) Timber which shall also include all building boards such as hardboard, celotex, etc.
(b) Masonry which includes concrete, brick, block and stone
(c) Metal
(d) Metal faced items
(e) Vulnerable materials which shall be deemed to include glass, marble, mosaic, tiled
finishes and the like
4.7 Procedure when inadequate information is provided
Where work can be fully defined as to description but the quantity of work cannot be accurately
determined, an estimate of the quantity is given and marked as a “provisional quantity”.
Where work cannot be described and the quantities cannot be adequately determined, it shall be
given as a “provisional sum”. Provisional sums may be of two types:
Provisional sum for defined work
This covers work that though not completely designed, the following information is available:
• The nature of the construction or work

• How and where the item of work is fixed in the building
• A quantity which indicates the scope and extent of the work
• Any specific limitations
In such cases, the Contractor is expected to make allowance for the work in his programming,
planning and pricing of preliminaries
Provisional sum for undefined work
This covers work for which none of the above information can be provided. in this case, it is
assumed that the contractor has not made any allowance for it in his programming, planning and
pricing of preliminaries.
4.8 Symbols and Abbreviations
During the process of “taking-off” or measurement words entered in the description column are
abbreviated to shorten descriptions, save space and also save time. The symbols and abbreviations
range from those in general use to those that are specifically used by quantity surveyors.
Those in common use include:
M Metre
m2 Square metre
m3 Cubic metre
Mm Millimetre
Nr or No. Number
Kg Kilogram
T Tonne
H hour
Specialised abbreviations
a.b.d As before described
av. average
Blk Block
blkwk Blockwork
c/c Centres
col. Column
conc. Concrete
c.w. Cold water
ddt Deduct
dp Deep
dpc Damp proof course
ditto/do As above
e.o. Extra over
exc. Excavate
fdn Foundation
fwk Formwork
g.l. Ground level
hwd Hardwood
Int. Internal
isol. Isolated
Jt. Joint
k.p.s Knot, prime and stop
matl. Material
max. Maximum
m.s. Mild steel
o/a Overall
p.c. Prime cost
reinfd Reinforced
sprd Spread
s.s.o Switched socket outlet
susp. Suspended
swd Soft wood
t&g Tongued and grooved
thk Thick
vert Vertical
wdw Window
wk Work
wrot Wrought
wt. Weight
xtg existing
WEEK 5: BESMM3 GENERAL RULES II
Cross Referencing
Cross referencing or coding of work item descriptions within the classification tables are given in the
form:
Work Number Number Number Numbers

section from the from the from the from the
number first second third fourth
column column column column
Example 1:
D20: 2.1.1.0
Excavating and filling Work section number
Excavating Column 1, number 2
Topsoil for preservation Column 2, number 1
Average depth 150mm Column 3, number 1
Column 4, no relevant entry
14.85 Excavating topsoil for

16.45 preservation, average
0.15 depth 150mm
(D20:2.1.1.0)
NOTE!
An asterisk (*) within a cross reference represents all entries in the column in which it appears
A zero (0) within a cross reference represents no entries from the column in which it appears
Cross referencing of descriptions is useful for abstracting and billing using the computer.
Example 2
D20:2.6.3.1
Excavating Column 1, number 2
Trenches, width ˃ 0.30m Column 2, number 6
Maximum depth ≤ 2.00m Column 3, number 3
Commencing 0.45m below ground level Column 4, number 1
42.44 Excavating trenches,

0.68 width exceeding 0.30m,
1.75 maximum depth not
exceeding 2.00m,
commencing 0.45m below
ground level
(D20:2.6.3.10)
Example 3
D20:7.2.1.1
Earthwork support Column 1, number 7
Maximum depth ≤ 2.00m Column 2, number 2
Distance between opposing faces ≤ 2.00m Column 3, number 1
Curved Column 4, number 1
2 42.44 Eartnwork support,

1.75 maximum depth not
exceeding 2.00m,
distance between
opposing faces not
exceeding 2.00m, curved
(D20:7.2.1.1)
Example 4
E05:9.1.2.1
In situ concrete Work section number
Beams Column 1, number 9
Isolated Column 2, number 1
Cross-sectional area 0.03-0.1m2 Column 3, number 2
Reinforced Column 4, number 1
5.65 Reinforced in-situ

0.23 concrete in isolated
0.30 beams, 0.03-0.1m2 cross
sectional area
(E05:9.1.2.1)
Example 5
E20:1.1.2.1
Formwork to in situ concrete Work section number
Sides of foundation Column 1, number 1
Plain vertical Column 2, number 1
Height ˃ 250mm Column 3, number 2
Left in Column 4, number 1
5.65 Reinforced in-situ

0.23 concrete in isolated
0.30 beams, 0.03-0.1m2 cross
sectional area
(E05:9.1.2.1)
Example 6
E30:4.1.0.0
Reinforcement Work section number
Fabric Column 1, number 4
Steel to BS 4483 ref. A193; weighing 3.02 kg/m2 Column 2, number 1
Column 3, no entry
Column 4, no entry
14.50 Steel fabric reinforcement

16.10 to BS 4483 ref. A193,
weighing 3.02Kg/m2
(E30:4.1.0.0)
Example 7
M10:5.1.1.1
Cement: sand screed Work section number
Floors Column 1, number 5
Level and to falls only ≤ 150 from horizontal Column 2, number 1
50mm thick, one coat Column 3, number 1
Laid in bays 1.20m x 1.20m Column 4, number 1
5.65 Cement & sand screed on

0.23 floors, level and to falls
0.30 only not exceeding 150
from horizontal, 50mm
thick, laid in bays average
size 1.20m x 1.20m
(M10:5.1.1.1)
CLASSROOM EXERCISE
Identify the relevant clauses in the BESMM3 to measure the following items, frame appropriate
descriptions and insert sample dimensions of the appropriate units:
1. Pit excavations for column bases, 2.3m deep
2. Reinforced is-situ concrete isolated columns, 225 x 225mm sectional size
3. 16mm diameter mild steel bar reinforcement to BS 4449 in isolated beams
4. Hardcore filling of broken blocks to make up levels under floors 300mm thick
5. White glazed vitreous china wash hand basin size 460 x 405
6. Testing and commissioning drainage
7. 22 SWG aluminium flashing 545mm wide
WEEK 6: BESMM3 GENERAL RULES III
Cross Referencing (Continued)
Example 8
F10:1.1.1.2
Brick/block walling Work section number
Walls Column 1, number 1
225mm thick Column 2, number 1
Vertical Column 3, number 1
Bonded to glass block walling Column 4, number 2
55.55 Walls, 225mm thick,

3.00 vertical of 450 x 225 x
225mm hollow sandcrete
blocks laid in stretcher
bond in c.m (1:4) and
bonded to glass block
walling
(F10:1.1.1.2)
Example 9
F10:2.1.1.0
Brick/Block walling Work section number
Isolated piers Column 1, number 2
450mm thick Column 2, number 1
Vertical Column 3, number 1
Column 4, no entry
32 0.45 Isolated piers, 450mm

2.70 thick, vertical of 450 x 225
x 225 solid sandcrete
blocks in English bond in
c.m (1:4)
(F10.2.1.1.0)
Example 10
G20:9.2.1.1
Carpentry/Timber framing/First fixing Work section number
Roof members Column 1, number 9
Pitched Column 2, number 2
50 x 150mm Column 3, number 1
Exceeding 6.00mm in continuous length Column 4, number 1
2 Roof members, pitched, 50

15 x 150mm sawn hardwood,
6.88 treated with one coat wood
preservative, exceeding
6.00m in continuous
lengths, 6.88m long
(G20:9.2.1.1)
Example 11
H72:1.1.0.0
Aluminium strip/sheet coverings/flashings Work section number
Roof covering Column 1, number 1
500 pitch Column 2, number 1
Column 3, no entry
Column 4, no entry
2 Roof covering, 500 pitch, 0.7mm thick,

27.35 22SWG longspan al. sheet roofing with
6.90 two corrugations side laps and 150mm
end laps, fixed to 50 x 50mm pulims @
900mm c/c (m/s) with 8mm hook bolts
incl seam bolting at 900mm c/c with al.
drive screws and neoprene sealer
washers to manufacturer’s instructions
(H72:2.1.0.0)
Example 12
J41:2.1.0.0
Built-up felt roof covering Work section number
Roof covering Column 1, number 2
Pitch 1:40 Column 2, number 1
Column 3, no entry
Column 4, no entry
14.32 Built up felt roofing to BS

7.88 747, NT Paralon
bituminous felt in 3 layers
with 150mm min. end and
side laps, hot bitumen
bonded between layers
and laid on screeded bed
to pitch 1:40
(J41.2.0.0)
Example 13
L10.1.0.1.0
Windows/Roof lights/Screens/Louvres Work section number
Windows and window frames Column 1, number 2
Column 2, no entry
Dimensioned diagram Fig 22 Column 3, number 1
Column 4, no entry
12 Anodised al. sliding

window and frame, size
1200 x 1200mm high as
reference XYZ Fig 22,
factory glazed with 4mm
tinted sheet glass,
including cutting and
pinning lugs to blkwk and
conc.
(L10:1.0.1.0)
Example 14
L20.1.0.1.0
Doors/Shutters/Hatches Work section

number
Doors Column 1, number 1
Column 2, no entry
Dimensioned diagram Fig 38 Column 3, number 1
Column 4, no entry
6 44mm Flush door 838 x

1981mm high semi solid
core faced both sides with
‘mahogany’ plywood and
lipped all round with 6mm
hardwood as diagram Fig.
38
(L20:1.0.1.0)
Example 15
M60.1.0.1.0
Painting/Clear finishing Work section number
General surfaces Column 1, number 1
Column 2, no entry
Girth > 300mm Column 3, number 1
Column 4, no entry
6 0.84 K.p.s, prepare & apply 2

1.98 undercoats and one
6 0.93 finishing coat of gloss
2.03 paint on general
hardwood surfaces,
exceeding 300mm girth
(M60:1.0.1.0)
CLASSROOM EXERCISE
Identify the relevant clauses in the BESMM3 to measure the following items, frame appropriate
descriptions and insert sample dimensions of the appropriate units:
1. Sawn formwork to isolated beams
2. 12 mm thick cement and sand rendering on walls
3. 3 coats of emulsion paint on rendered walls
4. 300 x 300 x 6mm ceramic tiles on screeded bed
5. 3 coats of gloss paint on metal internal door frames, girth 250mm
6. 25 x 300mm softwood fascia board
7. Forming cavity in hollow walls
WEEK 7: MEASUREMENT PROCEDURES
7.1 Taking-Off
This implies reading off dimensions form drawings and setting them down in a specific order on
special paper known as dimension paper and inserting an appropriate description.
Standard Dimension Paper
1. 2. 3. 4. 1. 2. 3. 4.
On the left-hand side is a narrow binding margin. The remainder of the sheet is divided into two
identical halves each containing three narrow columns and a wider one; the timesing column, the
dimension column, the squaring column and the description column respectively. The columns are
used as follows:
1. Timesing column is used for multiplying (timesing) the dimensions when necessary, each
multiplying factor followed by an oblique stroke. A factor followed by a dot indicates
addition instead of multiplication.
4 3.45
7.59
0.15
2
. 2.08
4.44
1
0.15
2. Dimension column is used for recording the dimensions in metres and centimetres.
Each linear dimension is underlined.
7.59 Length
LINEAR
A pair of dimensions, one above the other:
3.45 Length
AREA 7.59 Width
indicates an area (a superficial item)
A group of three dimensions 3.45 Length

7.59 Width
0.15 Depth
VOLUME
indicates a volume ( a cubic item)
A number (without a decimal point)
NUMBER 2
indicates an enumerated item
Note the order of entering dimensions is strictly:
1. Length
2. Width
3. Depth/height General rules 4.1)
Item indicates an item of cost for which a quantity cannot be calculated. A sum of money is usually
estimated and allowed for in the bills.
ITEM Item Allow for bringing to site
and removing from site
all plant required for this
work section
3. Squaring column: the resulting areas and volumes inserted in the timesing and dimension
columns are subsequently calculated and entered into the squaring column opposite their
respective dimensions.
4 3.45
7.59
15.71
0.15
2 2.08 4.16
. 4.44
0.15
1
4. Description column: This wide column is for entering descriptions of the measured work.
4 3.45 Hardcore filling to make

7.59 up levels under floors,
15.71 average thickness not
0.15 exceeding 250mm
2 2.08 4.16
. 4.44
0.15
1
5. Waste column: This is an imaginary column occupying the right had side of the description
columns in which the taker-off inserts any preliminary calculations (waste) which may be
necessary in order to arrive at his dimensions.
All preliminary calculations must be shown in waste. They need to be set down accurately
and carefully so they can be checked. They should be written either above or below the
description not level with it to avoid confusion.
Waste calculation is necessary for each dimension except in the following situations:
a) When a scaled or figured dimension can be transferred direct from the drawing to the
dimension column
b) When a dimension has been derived from a previous waste calculation
c) When a dimension has been copied from a previous dimension
d) In all other instances the preliminary calculation however simple should be shown on
waste.
Waste calculation should be done in millimetres or to three places of decimal. Final figures
are then rounded off to the nearest 10mm before being transferred to the dimension column.
7.2 Descriptions
The first line of each description should start at the same level as its first dimension. Standard or
common abbreviations are allowed in taking off but descriptions must be written in full in BOQs.
Descriptions must be concise, brief and free from grammatical errors. Terms used must comply with
current technical usage and an estimator must be able to read, understand and price it quickly and
accurately.
The following points should be noted:
• Descriptions should not be broken at the bottom of the page or column to continue overleaf
• Do not write ‘ditto’at the top of a column as this has no meaning
• Instead, repeat the first phrase in the description followed by “… as before described” or
“abd”,
Anding-on: Where two descriptions apply to one dimension, they are separated by an & in the centre
of the description column. Any number of descriptions may be anded-on in this way but not so as to
extend to another column.
15.67 Plain in-situ
0.68 conc (1:3:6) abd
0.23
7.89 &
0.68
0.23 Ddt
13.99 Backfill exc.
0.45 matl. Abd
0.15
&
Add
Remove excvtd
matl. from site
Deductions
Each item to be deducted requires the description to start with the word Deduct or Ddt (underlined).
A description must follow the word Ddt. It should not be written on its own. The next positive
description should be preceded with the word Add (underlined) in order to emphasise the change
from deductions to additions.
Bracketing
A bracket should be used wherever:
(a) More than one dimension applies to a description
(b) More than on description applies to a dimension
The bracket is written in the description column just next to the squaring column.
Niling
In order to delete, cancelling of dimensions is not allowed. Instead, the word “NIL” is written in the
squaring column opposite the offending dimension or dimensions. Arrows are usually used to denote
the extent of the deletion.
32.89
0.68
0.23
15.67
0.68
0.23
7.89
0.68 NIL
0.23
13.99
0.45
0.15
25.54
0.45
0.15
Annotations
Annotations are short or abbreviated words written beside waste calculations and dimensions to
denote from where the figures have been derived.
Side notes to dimensions require a single bracket on the left hand side only.
Example:
7.55 300 x 300 x 6mm Floor flex

5.50 tiles on trowelled bed
4.50 (master BDR
5.89 ( BDR 1
4.40 (BDR 2
(BDR 3
3.60
4.50 (BDR 4
3.77
4.55
3.45
Spacing of dimensions
All measurements and descriptions should be spaced well apart so that it is quite clear where one
begins and the other ends. Moreover it is not unusual for the taker-off to realise an omission and to
want to insert it in its proper place. If dimensions are well spaced out, he will be able to squeeze it in,
but otherwise he will have to insert it elsewhere and resort to cross-referencing which only confuses
things.
WEEK 8: APPLIED MENSURATION I
8.1 Introduction
Determination of quantities for work items in construction work involves calculating geometric
quantities such as lengths, areas and volumes from dimensions and angles that are known. Doing this
will require a healthy knowledge of the formulae for calculating the perimeters, areas and volumes
for various shapes.
These various shapes form the building blocks for most components found in construction work.
For instance, the area of the concrete floor slab below is a combination of rectangles of different
sizes.
Irregular shaped floor slab with a void
The archway below is made up of a half circle and a rectangle and the gabled wall is made up of a
triangle and a rectangle.
The hipped roof below is made up of two triangles and two rectangles
The following are useful formulae for calculating volumes, areas and perimeters of various shapes
SHAPE FIGURE VOLUME TYPICAL BUILDING
COMPONENTS
Rectangular prism Area of base x height Slabs

Beams
Base is a rectangle, therefore Columns
Trench excavations
Length x breadth x height Pit excavations
Basement excavations
Filling
Cylinder Area of base x height Circular slabs

Circular columns
Base is a circle, therefore Circular pit excavations
Circular basements
π x (radius)2 x height Filling
SHAPE FIGURE AREA PERIMETER
Rectangle Length x breadth (Length + breadth) x 2
Circle
π x (radius)2 π x radius x 2
Triangle ½ x base x height Side A + side B + side C
Arc of circle
2 x π x radius x θ/3600
Sector of a circle ½ X length of arc x radius Length of arc + (radius x 2)
Segment of a circle Area of sector – Area of Length of arc + length of chord

triangle
Chord
Bellmouth 0.2146 x radius x radius
Ellipse a A
0.7854 x (A x a)
Sphere
4 x π x (radius)2
SHAPE FIGURE AREA Perimeter
A
Trapezoid Height x ½(base + top)
C
C x ½(A + B)
B
Hexagon
2.6 x (side)2
Octagon
4.83 x (side)2
WEEK 9: APPLIED MENSURATION II
9.1 Relationship between shapes and Building Measurement

Measurement of a building or item of construction involves calculating lengths, areas or volumes of
different shapes and sizes. It may also involve counting or enumerating some types of components.
Invariably, most components can be analysed into some common shapes that the formulae are
known.
For instance, measuring the volume of excavation for a foundation trench involves calculating the
area of a rectangle (cross section of the trench) and multiplying by the length of trench.
d
l
Volume = length (l) x width (w) x depth(d)
Measuring the volume of concrete in an irregularly shaped floor:
5m 3m 7m
2.5m
5m 4m
The surface area of the floor would naturally divide into three rectangles. If the thickness of the floor
was 150mm (0.15m), then,
Volume of concrete = (5 x 5 x 0.15) + (3 x 2.5 x 0.15) + (7 x 4 x 0.15) m3

= 13.28m3
Setting out the above figures on a dimension sheet will be as follows:
5.00
5.00
0.15 3.75
3.00
2.50
0.15 1.13
7.00
4.00
0.15 8.40
13.28
An area of a component of wall would usually be the area of a rectangle, length of wall multiplied by
the height. If the wall is a gable wall then it would be rectangle topped by a triangle.
A wall would also usually have openings for windows, doors, arches, fixed lights, etc. The usual
thing is to measure the whole wall overall as if there were no openings and then systematically
deduct for openings that are rectangles, triangles and circles or parts thereof.
8m
0.9m
0.9m 0.9m
3m 1.2m 2.1m 1.2m
Area of wall = (8m x 3m) – { (1.2 x 0.9) + (0.9 x 2.1) + (1.2 x 0.9)}m2
= 24m2 – (1.08 + 1.89 + 1.08)m2
= 24m2 – 4.05m2 = 19.95m2
8.00 225 mm hollow
3.00 24.00 sandcrete block wall in
c.m (1:4)
2 1.20 Ddt
0.90 2.16 Ditto
0.90
2.10 1.89
4.05
Formwork to an isolated concrete column 225 x 225mm sectional size, 3m long. Formwork will go
round all four sides.
225mm
225mm
Perimeter of rectangle or square
= 225 + 225 + 225 + 225mm
3m OR = 225 x 4mm = 900mm
Area of formwork = 0.90 x 3.00m2
= 2.7m2
On dimension sheets:
4 0.23
3.00 2.76
Formwork to attached column 225 x 450 mm sectional size, 3.00m long
In this case, formwork is only on three faces of the concrete, on the two sides and on the wide face
face.
Perimeter of rectangle excluding one side = 225 + 450 + 225mm

225
= 0.900m2
Area of formwork = 3m X 0.9m2
= 2.7m2
On dimension sheets:
Length
225
450
225
900
8 0.90 Formwork to slabs

3.00 attached to slabs, 225 x
21.60 300mm plain
rectangular shape (in 8
Nr)
Any irregular-shaped area to be measured is usually best divided into triangles, the triangles being
measured individually and added to give the area of the whole. A line can be drawn through an
irregular or curved boundary in such a way that the area excluded by the line is compensated for by
the area that is included by it.
WEEK 10: CENTRE LINE GIRTH I
10.1 Introduction
The perimeter of a shape without thickness is simple to compute arithmetically using the principle of
(length + breadth) x 2. Whilst the simple arithmetic concept is always to be used, the computation
often proves to be somewhat complex for most students when a thickness is attributed to the shape as
is always the case when the perimeter of a wall or a trench is required to be computed.
To compute the perimeter of a wall, we will need to work out the perimeter of the internal line of the
wall and the perimeter of the external line of the wall and then compute the average of the two
perimeters. This procedure will turn out to be clumsy if not cumbersome. Hence the need for the
systematic computation of centre line as set out in the foregoing examples.
The importance of centre line computation cannot be over-emphasised as the result of the
computation will subsequently be found to be useful for the measurement of several items all
through the take-off stages.
Simple rectangular plan shape
10m
8m 200mm thick walls
Centre line
Centre Line
2/10.000 20.000 2 x length

2/8.000 16.000 2 x width
36.000 External perimeter
As this is a longer
than the perimeter
of the line running
through the centre
of the width of the
wall, Deduction
should be made as
follows:
Ddt At a corner, we
lose
4/2/½ /200 0.800 1 x ½ the thickness
in each of two
35.20 directions. This is
repeated in all the 4
x corners
Rectangular plan shape with a recess at corner(s)
2m
3m
8m 200mm thick wall
10m
Centre Line
2/10.000 20.000 2 x length

A drag of the 3.50m
length to complete
the 10m run on the
length
2/8.000 16.000
2 x width
A drag of the 2.5om
length to complete
the 8m run on the
36.000 breadth
Ddt
4/2/½ /200 0.800
35.200 Centre line
Student should
note that
regardless of how
dimensions are
This explains why an irregular shape is recorded in the
likely to be more expensive to build than a drawings,
regular shape as the same amount of quantities when
excavation and foundation work is required transferred to the
whilst the irregular shape provides a lesser waste calculation
usable floor area. column shall be
recorded to 3
places of decimal
or in millimetres (if
recorded without
decimal) without
any indication given
of the actual unit of
measurement
CLASS EXERCISE
Give students a rectangular shape with recesses at two corners (all dimensions given) to work out the
centre line for the recessed shape.
WEEK 11: CENTRE LINE GIRTH II
11.1 Rectangular plan shape with a recess along the wall

10m
200mm thick wall
8m
3m
2m
Centre Line
2/10.000 20.000 2 x length

A drag of the 3.50m
length to complete
the 10m run on the
length
2/8.000 16.000 2 x width

A drag of the 2.5om
length to complete
the 8m run on the
breadth
36.000
The 3.00m horizontal
in the recess drops
down to fill up the
10.00m on the length.
This leaves us with

Add the pair of 2.00m of
the recess
overhanging in the
2/2.000 4.000 plan.
This forms the only

External wall perimeter 40.000 excess to the original
rectangular shape
Adjustment for the

corners is always
made on the basis of
how many corners
there are in the
Ddt shape.
4/2/½ /200 0.800 To determine the

number of corners,
39.200 we count the external
corners as +ve and
the internal corners
as -ve
+6 x external corners
-2 x internal corners
This gives us a net

+4 corners
RULE 2
AN ALONG THE WALL RECESS

ALTERS THE PERIMETER OF
THE SHAPE BY 2 X THE DEPTH
OF THE RECESS
This explains why an irregular shape is

likely to be more expensive to build than
a regular shape as greater amount of
excavation and foundation work on the
irregular shape is required while at the
same time, the irregular shape provides a
lesser usable floor area.
CLASS EXERCISE
1. Give students a couple of rectangular shapes with recesses at two or more locations along the
wall (all dimensions given) to work out the centre line for the recessed shape.
WEEK 12: CENTRE LINE GIRTH III
12.1 More complex shapes
Rectangular plan shape with a recess along the wall and recess at a corner
2m
200mm thick walls
3m
8m
3m
2m
10m
Centre Line
2/10.000 20.0000 2 x length

A drag of the 3.50m
length to complete the
10m run on the length
2/8.000 16.000 2 x width

A drag of the 2.5om
length to complete the
8m run on the breadth
36.000 The 3.00m horizontal in

the along wall recess
drops down to fill up the
10.00m on the length.
Add This leaves us with the

pair of 2.00m of the along
wall recess overhanging
2/2.000 4.000 in the plan.
This forms the only

40.000 excess to the original
rectangular shape
The corner recess has

the same NIL effect as
always. Therefore no
adjustment is to be made
to the computation as a
result of a corner recess
Ddt Adjustment for the

corners is always made
4/2/½ /200 0.800 on the basis of how many
corners there are in the
shape.
39.200
To determine the number
of corners, we count the
external corners as +ve
and the internal corners
as -ve
+7 x external corners
-3 x internal corners
This gives us a net +4
corners
RULE 3
A MIX OF A CORNER
RECESS AND AN ALONG
THE WALL RECESS ALTERS
THE PERIMETER OF THE OF
THE SHAPE BY 2 X THE
DEPTH OF THE ALONG
WALL RECESS. THE
CORNER RECESS DOES
NOT HAVE ANY AFFECT.
This explains why a more irregular

complicated shape is likely to be even
more expensive to build than a regular
shape as still greater amount of
excavation and foundation work on the
irregular shape is required while at the
same time, the irregular shape provides
less and less usable floor area.
CLASS EXERCISES
1. Give students a couple of plan shapes with complicated recesses asking them to count how
many external and internal corners are present. Do this until the lecturer is confident that
students have a clear understanding of this concept
2. Give students a rectangular shape with recesses at two or more locations along the wall (all
dimensions given) to work out the centre line for the recessed shape.
WEEK 13: BESMM3 RULES FOR EXCAVATION AND
EARTHWORK I
13.1 Work group D Groundwork

This work section is covered by Section D20 of the BESMM3 and some of the clauses will be looked
at closely over the next three weeks as a prelude to measurement of substructures.
Generally D20: Excavating and filling deals with:
Forming bulk, pit, trench and surface area excavation other than those for
services supplies, M & E services and drainage;
Filling holes and excavations other than those for services, etc. and
Making up levels by bulk filling or in layers, including hardcore but excluding

bases and sub bases to roads and pavings
Information Provided, Measurement, Definition and Coverage Rules & Supplementary

Information
D20 Rule PI (e) Features retained would include trees which are retained and protected, stating
any required method of protection
D20 rule M3 The volume of material to be excavated can considerably increase after
excavation which is known as ‘bulking’ and the contractor should allow for
this when building up rates for disposal and filling since the quantities given in
the bill will refer to the bulk before excavating.
D20 Rule M7 This rule explains when it is necessary to measure working space and must be
read together with D20:6.1 and D20:6.2-4
D20 Rule D5 Special plant in this context of excavating in rock includes:
• Power operated hammers, drills, and chisels and
• Special attachments to mechanical plant such as rock buckets, rippers,

hammers and chisels
D20 Rule C2 This rule refers to the measurement of working space and apart from the
additional excavation needed, all the additional items such as earthwork
support, disposal, backfilling, work below water level, and breaking out
required as a result of the excavation of working space are deemed to be
included in the with the item.
Deemed to be included items
The term ‘deemed to be included’ is used extensively in BESMM3 and
indicates that this particular work is covered in the billed item without the
need for specific mention. The estimator needs to be aware of these items
since he will have to include for them while building up the unit rates.
D20 Rule S1-S9 These are supplementary information that provide additional information to
the contractor and could be given in specifications but must be referenced in
the description of relevant items
Classification Rules
D20:1.1-2 Site preparation, removing trees and tree stumps
D20 Rule M2
Stumps, girth
D20 Rule M1
measured at top Ground level (gl)
Trees, girth measured
1.00m above gl
D20.1.1. Removing trees D20.1.2 Removing stumps
D20.1.3.4 Clearing site vegetation is defined in D20 Rule D1. A full description is required with
sufficient detail to allow identification of vegetation types. These items are measured
over area (i.e. in square metres)
D20.1.4.1 Turf is apiece of grass sod cut from the ground and preserved for future use. The
method of preserving should be given in the specification and referred to in the
description.
D20.2.1.1 excavating topsoil for preservation need not be given as a separate item except where
it is specified that topsoil is to be preserved.
Ground level
Topsoil Average depth of topsoil stated
D20.2.2. Excavating to reduce levels
Topsoil depth
(if for preservation) (say 250mm)
Reduced level excavation maximum depth n.e. 0.25m
D20.2.2.1.1.Commencing level of reduced Formation level

level excavating stated where over 250mm
below existing ground level
If topsoil is not to be preserved then reduce level excavations commence at existing ground level (gl)
Ground level
Maximum depth
ranges of reduce
reduce levels n.e. 0.25m
excavating
n.e. 1.00m n.e. 2.00m thereafter

in 2.00m
stages
Formation level
Formation level
Formation level
D20.2.3 A basement is a useable area of a building below ground level. These are areas which
can be occupied areas, car parks and plant rooms.
Existing ground level
n.e 0.25m
Maximum
depth stages
n.e.1.00m
n.e. 2.00m
and thereafter in 2.00m stages
Basement ‘formation’ level
For any excavations required below

basement “formation’ level the
commencing level should be stated
D20.2.4-7 Excavation for pits trenches, pile caps

Maximum depth of excavation should be stated in the description in the following
stages:
Reduced level
n.e. 0.25m
n.e. 1.00m Depth of pit

/trench
n.e. 2.00m
n.e. 4.00m
D 20.2.8 Excavating “to bench sloping ground to receive filling” This is done in the face of
sloping ground to prevent slippage
D20.3 The rules under this clause cover items extra over any type of excavation irrespective
of depth.
Extra over items

When measuring certain items of work, they are described as extra over other items of
work previously measured. These are items are not priced at the full value of all their
labour and materials by the estimator as these have been measured to some extent
elsewhere. Pipe fittings such as bends and junctions, for example, are usually
measured as extra over the pipe lengths in which they occur. The estimator is
expected to work out the additional cost involved in the second item as compared with
the first.
The items under this rule are measured as extra over previously measured
excavations:
D20.3.1 Excavating below ground water table
Excavation Water table level
Excavating below
ground water
table level
The excavation is measured as if there was no water and then the bit excavated below water level is
then measured as extra over the excavation in which it occurs.
D20.3.4.1 Excavating next to existing services
Excavating next to existing services is measured in metres as extra over any types of
excavating stating the type of service, such as gas or water mains, electricity or
telephone cables or sewers.
Excavation
Gas service
pipe
Electricity
Cable duct
D20.3.5.1 Excavating around existing services crossing excavation

Excavating around existing services crossing excavation is an enumerated extra over
item.
Excavation
Gas service
pipe crossing
excavation
Electricity cable duct
EXERCISE
Go through all the Groundwork rules and identify the following:
1. All deemed to be included items
2. All extra over items
WEEK 14 EARTHWORK II
14.1 Classification Rules

D20.4. Breaking out existing rock, concrete, reinforced concrete, brickwork, blockwork or
stonework shall each be measured and described separately in cubic metres as extra
over any types of excavating
Rock is defined as any material which is of such size or position that it can only be
removed by special plant or explosives (D20: Definition Rule 5). Special plant are
defined as mentioned last week
D20.5. Breaking out existing hard pavings of reinforced concrete, brickwork, blockwork or
stonework, coated macadam or asphalt is measured in square metres stating the
thickness.
D20.6 Working space allowance to excavations
Working space is no longer measured in detail and this information is provided to
enable contractors to make their own allowance based on this and other information
provided.
Working space allowance to excavations, categorised in four types of excavations is

measured in square metres where the face of the excavation is less than 600mm from
the face of formwork, rendering, tanking or protective walls. The four types of
excavation are:
Reduce levels, basements and the like
Pits
Trenches
Pile caps and ground beams between piles
The measurement is taken as the girth or length of the formwork, rendering, tanking
or protective wall, multiplied by the height measured from the commencing level of
excavation to the bottom of the formwork, etc.
Note: An area is measured not a volume as the estimator is left to make a judgement
as to the width required giving due regard to the nature of the work involved.
A
If formwork required to face C, then working space is measured as:

Length or girth of the formwork on plan multiplied by height of the excavation A
B
E
Less than 600mm
F
More than 600mm
If no formwork is required to face D and if F is more than 600mm then no working

space is measured.
Ground level
Section of pit/trench/pile caps and ground beams
If the formwork is required to face B, the edge of the concrete foundation, then the
working space is measured to the full depth of the pit/trench. If no formwork is required
to face b then no working space allowance to excavation is measured.
D20.7 Earthwork Support
Earthwork support must be measured to the face of any excavation to be upheld
whether it will actually be required or not. This is to cover the contractor’s
responsibility to uphold the sides of excavations. It is left to the contractor’s discretion
to decide the extent and strength of support required or to use no support at all after
due consideration of the nature of the soil.
Earthwork support in measured in square metres to the whole face of excavations in

trenches, pits and the like except for excavations not exceeding 250mm depth and
pipe trenches which are measured linear. Earthwork support to pipe trenches is
deemed to be included in the item. Maximum depth is stated in the description in
stages. Earthwork support is also classified by the distance between opposing faces:
Not exceeding 2.00 metres
2.00m – 4.00 metres
Exceeding 4.00 metres
Earthwork support left in, curved, next to a roadway, below ground water level or to
unstable ground shall be described and measured separately.
The various classifications of depth and distance between faces are illustrated as follows:
1. A is less than 1.00m and B is less than 2.00m
A B
Area of earthwork support = length/girth of excavation x A
Maximum depth not exceeding 1.00m, distance between opposing faces not exceeding 2.00m
2. A is less than 1.00m and B is greater than 2.00m, but less than 4.00m
A B
Maximum depth not exceeding 1.00m, distance between opposing faces 2.00m – 4.00m
3. A is less than 1.00m and B is greater than 4.00m
A B
Maximum depth not exceeding 1.00m, distance between opposing faces exceeding 4.00m
4. A is greater than 1.00m but less than 2.00m and B is less than 2.00m
A B
5. A is greater than 1.00m but less than 2.00m and B is greater than 2.00m but less than 4.00m
A B
Maximum depth not exceeding 2.00m, distance between opposing faces 2.00-4.00m
6. A is greater than 1.00m but less than 2.00m and B is greater than 4.00m
A B
7. A is greater than 2.00m but less than 4.00m and B is less than 2.00m
A B
8. A is greater than 2.00m but less than 4.00m and B is greater than 2.00m but less than 4.00m
A B
Maximum depth not exceeding 4.00m, distance between opposing faces 2.00m – 4.00m
A B

Depth classification increases in stages of 2.00m thereafter, while for each class the distance between
opposing faces alternates between not exceeding 2.00m, 2.00m – 4.00m and exceeding 4.00m
CLASSROOM EXERCISE
1. A pit has been excavated for a reinforced concrete column base, 1000mm x 2500mm size on
plan. Column base will require formwork. Depth of excavation from ground level to
underside of column base is 1.85 metres:
(a) Sketch a section of the pit excavation
(b) Work out the allowance for working space
(c) Calculate the area for earthwork support and identify the classifications for maximum
depth and distance between opposing faces.
2. A foundation trench excavation has a mean length of 56.78m, width, 675mm and depth,
2.20m:
Calculate the area for earthwork support and identify the classifications for maximum depth
and distance between opposing faces.
EARTHWORK III
15.1 More Classification Rules

D20.8.1 Disposal of Surface Water
Surface water is defined as water which runs over the surface of the ground and
collects in the excavations. This rule solely applies to rainwater. Water arising from
leaking reservoirs or from flooding are examples of accepted risks or matters to be
dealt with by insurance.
Disposal of surface water is given as an item. No quantities are required.
D20.8.2 Disposal of Ground Water
Ground water is water present in the subsoil which percolates through the sides of
the excavation
The ground water level, date when established and location of the trial pits and bore
holes must be included in the contract documentation
The level established is defined as the “pre-contract water level” and all
measurements in the bills of quantities are based on this level
Disposal of ground water would only be included for pricing as an item where a
corresponding item is measured under excavating below water level and is adjusted
accordingly if the post contract water level is different.
D20. 8.3 Disposal of excavated material
Disposal of excavated material forms a separate item from the excavation itself.
The item is measured in cubic metres and the material may be:
• Stored on site
• Used as filling to make up levels, filling to excavations
• Removed from site
Unless there are specific handling requirements in the specifications or for health
and safety regulations in connection with active material’ or ‘toxic/hazardous
material’ then the handling of the excavated material will be at the discretion of the
contractor.
Where materials are disposed of on site the information provided under the fourth
column should state specific requirements for the location of such deposits and the
average distance from the excavation in metres.
D20.9-11 Filling
Filling to excavations
Fillingg to make up levels
Filling to external planters and the like, position stated
Filling can be obtained from different sources, these should be referred to in the specification
particularly in respect of material obtained off site
Surface Treatments
D20.13.1 Applying herbicides is measured over the surface area of the excavation and `relates
to the use of chemicals to stop the growth of vegetation. Application of anti termite
treatment can as well be measured under this rule.
D20.13.2 Compacting
acting would include the former traditional description ‘level and ram’. This
includes the compacting of bottoms of excavations and compacting of filling and
subsequently levelling their surfaces in readiness to receive concrete. Compacting is
classified into:
Compacting ground
Compacting filling
Compacting bottom of excavation
D20.13.2.*.1 Where blinding is intended to fill the interstices in the filling material only and has no
specific thickness then it can be included with surface treatment
Specific blinding beds of a given thickness should be measured as ‘filling’ under item
D20.10.3
D20.13.3.1.1 Trimming sloping surfaces is only measured where the slope is greater than 150 from
horizontal. If trimming in rock, this should be stated in the description
D20.13.4 & 5 Trimming to produce fair or exposed face & preparing subsoil for topsoil
The specification should include the requirements and how to achieve these. This
should then be referred to in the descriptions.
CLASSROOM EXERCISE
Extract the quantities for excavation, filling and disposal in a few bills of quantities and cross check
that:
TOTAL VOLUME OF EXCAVATION =

TOTAL VOLUME OF FILLING + TOTAL VOLUME OF SOIL REMOVED FROM SITE

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UNESCO

UNESCO-NIGERIA TECHNICAL &

1.0 Understand the history of Quantity

2.0 Understand the duties and functions of a

3.0 Know standard method of Measurement of

4.0 Understand in detail the knowledge of

1.1 Roots in Britain

1.2 Development of the Standard Method of measurement

1.3 History of quantity surveying in Nigeria

1.4 The Nigerian standard method of measurement

1.5 Recent developments in quantity surveying

1.6 Duties of the quantity surveyor

2.0 The role of the various professionals in the construction process

2.1 The quantity surveyor

2.2 The Architect

2.3 The structural, services and building engineer

2.4 The civil engineer

2.5 Professional bodies and regulatory bodies

3.0 The Standard Method of Measurement

3.1 The Standard Method of Measurement

3.2 The Building and Engineering Standard Method of Measurement

3.3 General rules

4.0 Building and engineering standard method of measurement general rules I

4.3 Framing work item descriptions

4.4 Drawn information

4.5 Catalogues and standard components

4.6 Fixing base and backgrounds

4.7 Procedure when inadequate information is provided

4.8 Symbols and abbreviations

5.1 Cross referencing

6.1 Cross referencing

7.0 Measurement procedures

7.3 Spacing of dimensions

8.0 Applied Mensuration I

9.0 Applied Mensuration II

9.1 Relationship between shapes and building measurement

10.0 Centre line girth I

11.0 Centre line girth II

11.1 Rectangular plan with recess

12. Centre line girth III

12.1 More complex shapes

13. BESMM3 Rules for Excavation and Earthworks I

13.1 Work Group D - Groundwork

14. BESMM3 rules for Excavation and earthworks II

14.1 Classification rules

15. BESMM3 Rules for Excavation and earthworks III

15.1 More classification rules

1.1 Roots in Britain

Clients or building owner employed architects were

Master craftsmen engaged measurers or surveyors to

Building owners had their work executed under contract

THE BILL OF The only way to prepare an accurate estimate cost or

Initially each builder prepared his own bills of quantities

1802 A number of Scottish quantity surveyors met to produce the

A Joint Committee was set up comprising, six surveyors and

In 1922, the first edition of the Standard Method of

1.2.1.1 Civil Engineering Works

The 3rd Edition of the Civil Engineering Standard Method of

1.2.1.2 Industrial and Process Engineering Works

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors published the