Preface xi

Acknowledgements xii

Abbreviations xiii

1 Introduction 1

The modern quantity surveyor 1

The need for measurement 1

The need for rules 1

Establishing the approach 2

Method of study 2

Examples 3

2 Detailed Measurement 5

Method of analysing cost 5

Origin of the bill of quantities 5

The measurement process 6

Attributes of a quantity surveyor 6

Divisions of bill preparation 6

Quantities as part of the contract 7

Contractor-produced quantities and estimates 7

Differences of custom 8

3 The Use of the RICS New Rules of Measurement (NRM) 9

Background 9

The NRM volumes 9

Introduction to NRM2 10

4 Setting Down Dimensions 13

Traditional dimension paper 13

Form of dimensions 14

Timesing 16

Dotting on 17

Waste calculations 18

Alterations in dimensions 18

The descriptions 19

Anding-on 21

Deductions 24

Spacing of dimensions 24

Accuracy 25

Numbering the dimension sheets 25

Cross-references 26

Clearness of the dimensions 26

Headings 27

Notes 27

Insertion of items 27

Squaring the dimensions 28

Scheduling dimensions 28

Using spreadsheets 29

5 Alternative Systems 31

Standardisation 31

Standard libraries 32

Computerised bill production 32

E-tendering 34

Site dimension books 35

Estimating paper 36

6 Preliminary Calculations 37

Mathematical knowledge 37

Perimeter of buildings 37

Centre line of the wall 38

7 General Principles for Taking-Off 45

Receipt of the drawings 45

Preliminary study of drawings 46

Queries with the designers 46

Initial site visit 47

Where to start 47

Organising the work 48

Taking-off by work sections 48

Drawings 48

The specification 49

Sequence of measurement 49

Measurement of waste 50

Overall measurements 50

Use of schedules 50

Use of scales 50

Use of NRM 2 51

Decision on doubtful points 51

Descriptions 51

Abbreviations 52

Extra over 52

Dimensioned diagrams 53

Prime cost items and provisional sums 53

Approximate quantities 54

Summary 54

8 Substructures 55

Particulars of the site 55

Bulking 55

Removing topsoil 55

Bulk excavation 56

Excavation for paths 57

Levels 58

Foundation excavation 58

Earthwork support 59

Disposal of excavated material 60

Working space 60

Concrete foundations 60

Concrete ground slab 61

Brickwork and blockwork in foundations 61

Damp-proof courses 62

Approach taken to measurement in Example 1 62

9 Walls 79

Measurement of brickwork 79

Subdivision 79

Measurement of projections 80

Descriptions 80

Brickwork thickness 80

Common and facing brickwork 80

Cutting, grooves, and the like 81

Returns and reveals 81

Hollow (cavity) walls 81

Bands 81

Special purpose blocks or stones 82

Reinforcement 82

Measurement of arches 82
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