Quantification and Costing

Question 1

What are the different volumes of NRM?

Answer 1

• NRM 1 - Order of Cost Estimating and Cost Planning for Building Works
• NRM 2 - Detailed Measurement for Building Works
• NRM 3 - Order of Cost Estimating and Cost Planning for Maintenance

Each volume serves a specific purpose in cost estimation and measurement.

Question 2

What is the structure of NRM 1?

Answer 2

• Introduction
• Measurement rules for cost estimating
• Measurement rules for cost planning
• Tables showing rules for elemental measuring
• Appendix

This structure provides a comprehensive guide for cost estimating and planning.

Question 3

What is the structure of NRM 2?

Answer 3

• Introduction
• Detailed measurement of building works
• Rules of measurement for building works
• Appendices

The structure is designed to facilitate detailed measurement practices.

Question 4

How do you ensure the quantities you take are accurate?

Answer 4

• Ask the architect/engineer to scale drawings
• Use NRM as rules on how to accurately measure
• Measure GIFA and request the architect to confirm accuracy
• Follow key to ensure correct items are measured
• Undertake CostX training for software accuracy
• Spot check against items like door widths
• Have quantities peer reviewed by a colleague

These steps help maintain accuracy in measurement.

Question 5

Why is it important to use industry standard templates and rules of measurement?

Answer 5

• To provide accuracy and consistency
• To ensure all parties price on the same basis
• Contractors may not price bespoke templates
• Disputes may require independent advice from RICS

RICS guidance emphasizes the use of industry standard templates like NRM.

Question 6

What is a vesting certificate and what other things do you need in place for valuing materials off site?

Answer 6

• Vesting certificate: evidence that the ownership of materials will transfer from one party to another on payment
• Off site material bond
• Evidence that materials are present and labeled correctly
• Insurances in place

Ensure no retention of title clause is in place in the vesting certificate.

Question 7

How are prelims split and can you give examples?

Answer 7

• Time related
• Fixed

Examples: Time related - cranes/hiring of plant; Fixed - cost of PPE, purchase of hoarding or welfare unit.