1
Q
What is the title of NRM1?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Order of cost estimating & cost planning for Capital Building works
2
Q
What is the title of NRM2?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Detailed Rules of Measurement for Building works
3
Q
What are the 4 different sections of NRM1?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o General
o Measurement rules for order of Cost Estimating
o Measurement rules for Cost Planning
o Tabulated Rules of Measurement for elemental Cost planning
4
Q
What are the 3 different sections of NRM2?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o General
o Detailed Measurement of Building Works
o Rules of Measurement for Building works
5
Q
What is the purpose of NRM1?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Provide a consistent approach for preparing and structuring Cost Estimates and Cost Plans
6
Q
What is the structure of NRM1?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Facilitating works
o Substructure
o Superstructure
o Internal finishes
o FF&E
o Services
o Prefabricated Buildings
o Works to Existing Building
o External Works
o prelims & OHP
o risk
6
Q
Is NRM1 linked to IPMS?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Yes – It is linked to both IPMS 1 (External) and IPMS 2 (Internal)
6
Q
What are the key principals of NRM1?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Standardise Approach across projects
o Improves Clarity for clients
o Ensures estimates are consistent and comparable
7
Q
What are the different risk allowances stated with NRM1?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Design Development Risk
o Construction Risk
o Employer Change Risk
o Employer Other
8
Q
Examples of Construction Risk?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Site Conditions
o Discoverables (Ground conditions or existing services)
9
Q
What is an example of a employer other Change risk?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Early Handover
o Acceleration
o LD’s
10
Q
What are the different methods of pricing for works?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Floor Area method
o Functional Unit rate
o Elemental Method
11
Q
What is included for within a Unit rate?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o materials
o Labour
o Plant
o Sub-Contractor design fees, prelims & OHP
12
Q
What is the minimum information needed to produce a cost estimate?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Floor areas
o Purpose of use of the space
o Budget expectations
o Expected date of construction
13
Q
What are some different examples of efficiency Ratio’s?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Wall to floor
o Net -to gross
o Circulation - Net
14
Q
What is the most efficient shaped building in terms of floor space?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Circle
15
Q
What is the cheapest and most expensive shaped buildings?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Expensive – Odd shaped buildings (circular, U-shaped buildings)
o Cheapest – Square
16
Q
What were the cost uplifts from stages 2 & 3 for Goodwin Procter?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o 250nr Tech Panels @ £1250 = £312k
o Uplift of £100k for planting
o Design Development (Wall build ups, elevations)
16
Q
What were some cost movements from stages 2 to 3 on the Goodwin Procter Project?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Sky fold Partitions introduced
o Planting scope increased significantly
o Tech Panels to every meeting rooms
17
Q
What are some considerations when using benchmarked data?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Ensure data is from projects of a similar nature and characteristics
o Ensure it is upto date information is being used
18
Q
What is better to use, BCIS or In-house information?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o In-house data
Work with the best clients and projects
More control of the data and know where it comes from
Know the exact specs
19
Q
Who produces the BCIS?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o RICS
20
Q
How do you adjust for Location index between Manchester and London?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Review BCIS for Location Factor
London – 120 (20% above national average)
Manchester – 90 (10% below Uk average)
o London Manchester Rate E.g £1000/m2 x (90/120) = £750/m2
21
Q
What were some of the items being tracked on the global budget?
Design economics and cost planning
A
o Professional fees
o FF&E
o Specialist lighting
o Security
o AV
o Contingency
22
How much were you overbudget on the Fenix Mayfair Stage 3 Cost plan?
| Design economics and cost planning
o £140k Global budget
23
Did you not use the contingency within the Cost plan?
| Design economics and cost planning
o Yes, we draw down upon the design contingency
o We had already used a half of it at Stage 2 (£80k)
24
# Fenix Mayfair - Stage 3 cost plan
What was the VE options you proposed?
| Design economics and cost planning
o As a team, we managed to present a total of £170k savings.
o Revert back to Bose systems speakers (£25k)
o Cheaper alternative Timber flooring (20k)
o Simplify Vanity units in toilets (£17k)
25
Do you advise clients on contingencies?
| Design economics and cost planning
o Base the contingency on the outstanding Risk assessment at the point of estimate or cost plan
26
What is an example of a project you built a contingency for?
| Design economics and cost planning
o Allwyn Level 5 – Accounted for outstanding risks on the project at the point of producing our cost plan.
o Outstanding risks and items accounted for was:
Site Conditions
Clients request for post contract change
D&B contract
Landlord Services Validations
27
Do you review the contingency throughout the construction process?
| Design economics and cost planning - Allwyn L5
o Yes, I will regularly review the construction risk and advice my client whether there is availability to reduce or a need to ask for more funds.
28
Did you use all of the contingency?
| Design economics and cost planning
o No – I advised my client to have a £140k contingency. Only used £50k
29
What are some of the different types of contracts you have experienced?
| Contract Practise
o JCT SBC
o JCT D&B 2016 & JCT D&B 2024
30
What are some of the different contract Suites?
| Contract Practise
o NEC (New Engineering Contract)
o JCT (Joint Contract Tribunal)
o FIDIC (Federation of Consulting Engineers)
31
What are some examples of Implied terms?
| Contract Practise
o Duty to cooperate (Mackay v Dick (1881) – Employer must not hinder contractor’s performance.)
o Duty not to hinder performance (London Borough of Merton v Leach (1985)
- duty of care -
32
What are some examples of Expressed Terms?
| Contract Practise
o Contract Sum
o Liquidated Damages
o Retention
o Completion Date
33
When would you advise to use a NEC contract over a JCT contract?
| Contract Practise
o Client has had previous experience with experience with NEC
o Public sector/Infrastructure projects
34
What is the Housing Grants, Construction and regeneration Act 1996 / The Construction Act?
| Contract Practise
o Piece of UK legislation that governs how construction contracts handle payment, dispute resolution, and suspension rights.
35
Why was the HGCRA introduced?
| Contract Practise
o introduced to improve cashflow in the construction industry and provide a fair and fast mechanism for resolving disputes.
36
What did the HGCRA introduce?
| Contract Practise
o Right to Interim Payment for all construction contracts over 45 days
o Payment notices must be issued 5 days of the due date
o Introduced the right for a payless notice
o Removed “Pay when paid” clauses
37
What did the HGCRA get replaced with?
| Contract Practise
o Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009 (effective from 2011).
38
What did the Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009 update?
| Contract Practise
o The payee can suspend part or all of the works if unpaid, after giving 7 days’ notice.
o Payment due dates and final dates must be clearly set out in the contract; if not, the Scheme for Construction Contracts applies.
39
What is the difference between JCT D&B 2016 & JCT D&B 2024?
| Contract Practise
o Allows for E-signatures
o Incorporates Building Safety Act 2022
o Timeframe for an Employer to notify a decision on extension of time has reduced from 12 weeks to 8 weeks
o Uses more gender neutral language
40
What factors do you consider when advising on the appropriate contract?
| Contract Practise
o Size of project
o Client
o Type of work
o Risk allocation
o Client familiarity
41
When would you use a LOI?
| Contract Practise
o Commence works early
o Early procurement of items with long leads times
o When programme is the most important driver
42
What must a LOI include?
| Contract Practise
o Must have a start and end dates
o Must state the maximum value for the works to be completed
o Must state what works are to be completed under the LOI
o State insurances details
o Give the client the right to exit the LOI and not enter in contract
42
Is a LOI, a formal contract?
| Contract Practise
o No, a LOI is a legally binding contract that outlines preliminary contract terms if a contract would be in place
43
What are the negatives of LOI?
| Contract Practise
o Employer exposed to greater legal and commercial risk if issues arise. (LAD’s and other warranties might not apply)
o Client looses bargaining power, and contractor already has a foot in the door
o Hard to define exact scope to be captured under the LOI
44
What is the case law that explains the risks of LOI?
| Contract Practise
o Ampleforth Abbey Trust v Turner & Townsend Project Management Ltd (2012)
45
What guidance note is provided by RICs on LOI?
| Contract Practise
o Journal Note – On Risks of LOI
46
What is some of the advice given within the RICS jounal note for LOI
| Contract Practise
o Be limited in value and duration (often 10–15% of contract sum or 4–6 weeks).
o Include termination and payment clauses.
o Be used only where essential
o Define scope clearly
47
Why did you use a SBC contract for the Goodwin Procter Project?
| Contract Practise
o Client wanted to keep control of the design – with very high finishes
o Programme was not the priority
48
What was included within the Goodwin Procter Contract pack?
| Contract Practise
o Legal Documents (JCT Contract & Schedule of Amendments)
o CSA
o Employers Requirements
o Programme
o Landlord & Base build Information
49
Valuation Process?
| Contract Practise
o Interim Valuation date
o I then review and visit site and make comments
o I have 7 days from the I.V.D to submit my recommendation to the EA/CA.
o EA/CA then has 5 days to raise their payment notice
o In an unamended contract – the client then has 14 days to pay
o 5 days to raise payment less notice
50
Vesting Certificate Process?
| Contract Practise
o Review contract to see if the items were stated as listed items (Clause 4.16)
o Ensure a vesting certificate is in place
o Visit materials off site
o Ensure that the materials are correctly labelled
o Safely secured
o All necessary bonds and insurances are in place
51
What insurances should be in place for vesting certificates?
| Contract Practise
XXX
52
Why did you not provide advise on LD’s?
| Contract Practise
o Because are PI insurance does not cover for it and I am not qualified to do so
53
What can you explain/advise on LD’s
| Contract Practise
o What LD’s should include for
o Examples of previous projects to give scale
54
What should LD’s capture for?
| Contract Practise
o Loss of income
o Extended Professional fees
o Any financial loans
o Additional storage costs
o Idle Staff
54
What should LD’s not capture?
| Contract Practise
o Arbitrary penalty sums (“to punish contractor”).
o Consequential losses like reputational damage.
55
Could you not have issued non-completion if the acoustic requirements were not met and withheld LD’s rather than agreeing penalty amounts to be deducted? Why did you not take this approach?
| Contract Practise
o Because we didnt want the contract to be deemed to be penalising the contractor.
o We wanted surety and protection for the client. We wanted to protect the client to withold funds until satisfied that works were complete to standard.
56
How did you agree the values included within the Schedule of Amendments?
| Contract Practise
o There was costs associated with the works associated with Acoustic Surveys, design, construction and handover.
o I agreed with the contractor to withold money on a pro-rata basis for the size of the floor. And agree to only withold payment for the floors that have failed to meet the specified standard.
57
What was included in the design to improve acoustics? Please can you give me some examples.
| Contract Practise
Mullions
Suspended Acoustic Ceiling Rafts
Acoustic Wall panels
Double glazed partitions
Lagging of Containment
58
How did you ensure the acoustic requirements were met? How was this tested?
| Contract Practise
third party consultantcy was (hand-tucker) was paid to come in and to complete an acoustic survey
59
What were the differences in the design between this project and the previous one where acoustics were not good?
| Contract Practise
1. On Allwyn Level 3, they had used wall plenums all around the perimeter of the building and Chilled beams installed by the landlord. This meant that they could not use slab to slab partitions
2. The budget was also very limited so there was very little acoustic treatment.
60
If you wanted to install a clause for an “acoustic hold-back until compliant” mechanism, what should you include?
| Contract Practise
1. Performance standard (e.g., Rw/dB targets) + test method/standard.
2. Right to withhold sums linked to non-compliant acoustic works until rectified.
3. Independent testing, retest rules, timing, access.
4. Remedial duty: contractor must make good and retest.
5. No deemed acceptance until pass confirmed.
61
What are some common amendments within the SOA?
| Contract Practise
o Payment dates
o Precedence over CP’s and ER’s
o Insurance provisions
62
Why did you recommend a JCT D&B Contract to your client for the Fenix Mayfair project?
| Contract Practise
o Client had a negative experience with using an SBC on a previous project
o There was a number of client direct packages and wanted to reduce his exposure to risk.
o We tendered out to stage 4 information, to satisfy him that they were happy with the specifications and design of the space
63
What are some different foundation types?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Shallow and Deep
64
What are some example of shallow foundations?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Trench
o Pad
o Raft
65
What are some example of deep foundations?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Piles
o Caisson
66
What is a Caisson foundation?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Large-diameter, cast-in-situ concrete shafts constructed into the ground
67
Please provide examples of when you would use each of the foundations.
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Trench – House Dwellings
o Pad – low-to mid rise buildings – Used to connect columns
o Raft – Basement, warehouses – Where the load is distributed evenly
o Piles – When the soil is weak and the load bearing capacity is high, groundwater is high. – high rise buildings
o Caisson – Marine or off-shore structures or Bridge piers
68
What are the different types of piles?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o End Bearing
o Friction
68
What are two methods of installing piles?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Driven
o Bored
69
What can piles be made out of?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Concrete
o Steel
o Timber
70
How do you construct a Bored Pile?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Complete site survey & mark pile positions
o Drill / Bore hole
o Add casings
o Install reinforcement if needed
o Pour Concrete via tremie Pipe
o Withdraw casing
71
What is a piling mat?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o A temporary platform used to house piling rigs and plants
72
What is top-down construction?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o where the superstructure and substructure are built simultaneously
73
What is bottom-up construction?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Bottom-up construction is the conventional method of building where the substructure (foundations and basement) is fully completed first, before starting on the superstructure above ground.
74
What are the different methods of waterproofing a basement?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Tanking
o Drained Cavity System
75
What are the different types of Grade of waterprooding for a basement?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Grade 1 - Basic Utility (car parks)
Grade 2 - Improved Utility (retail storage)
Grade 3 - Habitable Space (office/residential)
Grade 4 - Special Areas (document archives)
76
What is a CAT A Fit out?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o A non-tailored white box that gives a tenant a blank canvas to come in a complete a fit out
77
What is a CAT B Fit out?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o A Space that is fitted out by a tenant to tailor it to their needs and use of the buildings
78
What is included within a CAT A Fit out?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o RAF
o Basic M&E & Connection points
o Core areas & WC’s fit out
79
Where do you find the definition of a CAT A & CAT B Fit out guide?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o BCO Fit Out Guide
80
What does BCO Stand for?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o British Council for Offices
80
What are some examples of Building regulations that you must adhere to in Fit out?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Approved Document – B – Fire Safety
o Approved Document – F – Ventilation
o Approved Document – M – Access to and use of Buildings
o Part L – Conservation of fuel and Power
80
What is some examples of the information that is included within the approved documents?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Part B (Fire safety) - means of escape
- minimum corridor and stair widths
2. Approved Document M (Access to and use of Building) - lifts and signage
- braille signage
- visual contrast aids
81
What are all of the RIBA stages?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Stage 0 – Strategic Definition
o Stage 1 – Preparation and Briefing
o Stage 2 - Concept Design
o Stage 3 – Spatial Coordination
o Stage 4 – Technical Design
o Stage 5 – Manufacturing & Construction
o Stage 6 – Handover
o Stage 7 – In use
82
What are some examples of the VE you implemented on the Louis Manchester restaurant?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Simplified Waiter stations – 3nr (Less curves, £23k saving)
o Mirror ceiling to Bathroom Corridor – (£27k)
o Replace timber Louvres to Window film – (£92k)
83
What were some VE items that wasn’t moved forward with?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Reduce the spec of the catering equipment - £35k
o Simplified the 3 tiered gold ceiling to 1 tier - £30k
84
What are some of the key cost drivers for a Staircase?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Structural Shape
o Height
o Materials & Finishes
o Ease of Logistics and delivery
85
What are some different shaped Staircases?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Dog legged
o Helical
o Cantilevered
o Straight
86
What were the cost drivers for the finishes you used on the Goodwin Procter staircase?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Terrazzo floor
o Steel beams
o Planter box integration
o Balustrade
87
What were the ranges of Costs of staircase you showed?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o £100k to £400k
88
What costs need to be considered when pricing a Staircase?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Soft spot locations
o Crash decks
o Trimming Beam
o Connections
o Formwork
89
What is a trimming beam?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o A structural member used to support and distribute loads around an opening in a floor, roof, or ceiling
90
What is formwork?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Formwork is a temporary mould or structure used to support and shape freshly placed concrete
91
How do you build a stud partition?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Lay down the ceiling and floor tracks
o Stud frame to be inserted
o Insulation inserted
o Partitions layered
o Tapped and Jointed
92
What are the different elements of a RAF?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Adhesive fixing to the subfloor
2. Adjustable pedastal
3. Optional stringer (horizontal steel bars)
4. Floor Panel
93
How tall are RAF typically?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o 150mm -400mm
94
How big are RAF?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o 600mm x 600mm
95
What are different RAF floors are there?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o Bare panel
o Calcium sulphate – Fire resistant and better acoustic (used in comms rooms)
o Steel
96
What is the test for RAF?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o T42 Swing bag test
97
What standard is the T42 test covered in?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o BS EN 12825:2001 – Raised Access Floor
98
What is the difference between sound insulation (airborne/impact) and sound absorption?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Insulation: blocks sound passing between spaces (partitions, doors).
Absorption: soaks up sound within a space to reduce reverberation (ceiling tiles, wall panels).
98
What is involved in a T42 test?
| Construction technology and environmental services
o A weighted bag of 42kg is suspended from a fixed height
o The bag is swung like a pendulum to strike the floor panel at its weakest point (typically mid-span between pedestals).
99
What does Rw mean?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Rw (dB): lab-rated airborne sound insulation of a building element.
100
What is reverberation time (Rw60)?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Time for sound to decay by 60 dB; shorter Rw = clearer speech.
101
What is the purpose of acoustic flanking control?
| Construction technology and environmental services
a
raised floor/voids;
suspended ceilings; perimeter walls/columns;
services penetrations.
102
What is the doors weakest acoustic area?
| Construction technology and environmental services
A the perimeter
103
What mitigation approaches can you reduce for HVAC systems?
| Construction technology and environmental services
liners
silencers,
larger/slower fans
104
What are some different brands of acoustic fabric panels?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Kvadrat soft cells
Autex Acoustics
105
What is provided within a CAT A fit out?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Basic Lighting
2. RAF
3. Exposed Ceiling
4. Basic opening for M&E
106
What are the main types of surveys before a fit out is complete?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. As Built surveys (MEP & Structural)
2. Asbestos Survey
3. Demolition Survey
4. Services Capacity
107
What is a deflection head and why is it used?
| Construction technology and environmental services
A detail at the top of the partition wall where it meets the soffit, it allows for vertial movement of the buidling structure without damaging the partition
108
What are some methods of achieving good acoustic seperation in meeting rooms?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Slab to slab partitions
2. Acoustic Doors
3. Flanking
4. Services Attenunators
5. Acoustic Barriers
6. Fabric Panels
109
What’s a typical office metal stud partition build-up?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Metal Track
2. Metal studs
3. 1–2 layers plasterboard each side
4. Insulation in void
5. Tape & joint or skim
110
When do you take partitions slab-to-slab?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. fire resistance
2. Higher acoustics (meeting rooms)
3. Smoke control
4. Security.
111
What’s the role of insulation in partitions?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Improves airborne sound reduction
2. Can also assist with fire performance (as per tested system).
112
What are common partition failure points on site?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Unsealed perimeters
2. services penetrations
3. back-to-back sockets
4. ceiling/RAF flanking
113
What is includeed in Approved Document B?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Fire Safety
2 Volumes - Dwellings and other buldings
Means of escape, prevention of fire spreading, fire alarms / requirement for sprinklers
114
What are the different types of surveys you can conduct?
| Construction technology and environmental services
For offices - existing services
For basebuild - ground conditions
For existing building - asbestos
115
How do you measure ductwork?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Determine type of ductwork
2. Measure linear meter
3. Identify any elbows, T-sections, and take-offs
116
Different HVAC systems?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. FCU
2. Chilled beams
3. Cassettes
117
What are some different types of pile walls?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1.Sheet
2.contingious
3.sheet
118
How are piles constructed?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Driven (displacement) - pile driver hammers pile into the ground
Bored (replacement) - soil removed to pour pile in situ
119
What is the cost of a pile?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Depends on the length and width of the pile - can range from £5000-£25k
120
What is underpinning?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Process of stregntherning existing foundation by introducing additional support measures
121
What is a sump pump?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Small pump installed in a sump pit to pump water away from a building
122
What is slip form construction?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Method of constructing concrete stuctures by pouring concrete into MOVING FORMWORK that rises vertically at a rate fast enough to allow the concrete to set
123
What is jump form construction?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Process which allows concrete to cure in formwork before jumping up (using hydraulic jacks) to the next level to repeat the process
Typically used for lift chafts and cores in high rise buildings
124
In a secant wall, are both female and male piles reinforced?
| Construction technology and environmental services
No, only male piles have reinforcement to allow them to overlap female piles
125
What is the purpose of a structural frame?
| Construction technology and environmental services
To transfer loads (dead, live, wind) safely from the building to the foundations.
126
What are the three main structural frame materials?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Steel
2. Concrete
3. Timber
127
What are the benefits of using steel frames?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Fast erection
2. Castelled beam - allows services to be fed through
5. Off-site manufacture: offers programme advantages due to certainty of delivery and speed of installation and cost advantages as less labourers on site
128
What are the disadvantages of Steel frames?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Need fire protection (intumescent coating which amount to 10 15% of the cost of the steel frame for a typical multi-storey commercial building)
2. Susceptible to rust
3. Energy intensive to produce
4. Price of steel is volatile
129
What is reinforced concrete?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Concrete with embedded steel reinforcement to resist tension.
130
What are the advantages of concrete frames?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Durable
2. Fire resistant
3. Acoustically good
4. Thermally efficient.
131
What are precast concrete elements?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Factory-made concrete components lifted into place on site.
132
What is CLT?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Cross-Laminated Timber
When solid wood boards are glued together perpendicularly
133
What are the benefits of timber frames?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Renewable
2. Lightweight,
3. Fast to erect
4. Low embodied carbon.
134
What are the main drawbacks of timber frames?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Fire and moisture risk
2. Limited height
3. Potential for rot or decay.
135
What Building Regulation governs structure?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Part A of the Building Regulations.
136
Why is fire protection crucial for steel structures?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Steel loses strength rapidly above ~550°C.
137
Why might a steel frame be chosen for a fit-out project?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Speed, adaptability, reduced weight, and minimal disruption to existing structures.
138
What is the cost of a Steel column
| Construction technology and environmental services
£5000/nr column
139
What are some different shaped steel beams?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Universal Beam (I or H)
2. Fabsec Beams (I or H)
3. Angled Section (L shaped)
140
What is concrete made of?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Water
2. Cement
3. Aggregate (sand)
141
What are timber frames made up of?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Verical Studs
2. Noggins (Horizontal)
3. Lintels (Above doors)
4. Head rail (Top)
5. base rail (Bottom)
142
What are some different types of plasterboard suppliers?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Gyproc (British Gypsum)
2. Knauf
143
What building regulations must Wall partitions consider?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Part B - Fire Safety
Part E- Resistance to Sound
Part L - Conservation of Fuel and Power (Thermal efficiency)
144
What components make a partition fire rated?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Fire Rated plasterboard
2. Stud frame is made from galvanied stel
3. Fire resistant insulation
145
What component of a element of a partiton makes a partion fire rated?
| Construction technology and environmental services
The Fibre glass
146
What are the different types of duration for fire ratings?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. 30 mins
2. 60 mins
3. 90 mins
4. 120mins
146
How do you measure partitions in accordance with NRM 2?
| Construction technology and environmental services
m2
147
Under the NRM2, does it tell you to measure over doors for internal walls and partitions?
| Construction technology and environmental services
Yes - “no deduction should be made for door openings and screens”
148
How do you install poured Terrazzo?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Ensure floor is flat and dry
2. If not level with screed
3. Pour the terrazzo in the area and place aggregate slabs in the mixture
4. Let it cure for 4-7 days
5. Grind & Polish
149
What was the benefit of using a pre-cast terrazzo vs a Poured Terrazzo?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Programme (3 weeks)
2. Costs £200/m2 cheaper = £50k
150
What is some of the drawbacks of using a pre-cast terrazzo?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. Floor trims and loose aesthic
2. Cannot lay marble aggregate in the positions you want
151
On the Allwyn L5 project, can you please explain the cost differences between implementing slab-to-slab partitions and under-floor acoustic barriers?
| Construction technology and environmental services
1. RAF Soffit = £300/m2
Slab to slab= £550/m2
Total Partitions = 100lm * 2.6mhigh = 260m2
Total uplift = £143,000
2. Underfloor Acoustic Barriers: £100/lm
Acoustic Barriers applied to everywhere = £100 x 10lm
= £10,000
3. Fabric Acoustic Panel:
Wall panel = £275/m2
Wall Panel = £71k
152
What is procurement in the context of construction projects?
| Procurement & Tendering
Process of acquiring works/services and selecting strategy, contract and suppliers.
153
What factors influence the choice of procurement route?
| Procurement & Tendering
Client priorities (time/cost/quality), risk, design responsibility, complexity, market, funding, programme.
154
Name common procurement routes in the UK.
| Procurement & Tendering
1. Traditional;
2. Design & Build (single/two-stage);
3. Management Contracting
4. Construction Management.
155
When is Construction Management appropriate?
| Procurement & Tendering
Fast‑track; experienced client; many specialist packages needing early involvement.
156
Advantages/disadvantages of Management Contracting?
| Procurement & Tendering
Pros: early start, expertise, flexible.
Cons: less cost certainty; client bears more risk; more involvement.
157
What is a procurement strategy document and contents?
| Procurement & Tendering
Recommends route, tender strategy, risk allocation, programme, rationale.
158
Difference: procurement strategy vs tendering strategy?
| Procurement & Tendering
Procurement = route/contracting model; Tendering = how to obtain competition under that route.
159
How does a risk register inform route selection?
| Procurement & Tendering
Allocates risks to party best able to manage; shapes route choice.
160
Main client objectives to clarify pre‑advice?
| Procurement & Tendering
Budget, programme, quality, design control, risk appetite, change flexibility.
161
Main tendering methods recognised by RICS?
| Procurement & Tendering
Open, Selective, Negotiated, Framework.
162
Key differences: single‑stage vs two‑stage tendering?
| Procurement & Tendering
Single = fixed price on complete design; Two‑stage = early appointment then final price later.
163
When is negotiated tendering appropriate?
| Procurement & Tendering
Trusted/specialist contractor; urgency; limited market.
164
What is a framework agreement?
| Procurement & Tendering
Pre‑approved suppliers for call‑offs over a term under set terms.
165
Pros/cons of selective vs open tendering?
| Procurement & Tendering
Selective: quality/fit bidders but fewer; Open: wider competition but higher risk/variable quality.
166
Typical D&B tender pack contents?
| Procurement & Tendering
167
What is included in an Invitation to Tender (ITT)?
| Procurement & Tendering
Scope, dates, submission rules, evaluation criteria, contacts/format.
168
Purpose and contents of an Expression of Interest (EOI)?
| Procurement & Tendering
Gauge interest/capability; outline scope/route; request experience/capacity info.
169
EOI vs PQQ?
| Procurement & Tendering
EOI = informal market test; PQQ = formal suitability filter.
170
Key information in a PQQ?
| Procurement & Tendering
1. Financials,
2. experience
3. References
4. H&S
5. Insurance
6. Technical resources.
171
What is tender compliance?
| Procurement & Tendering
1. Submission conforms to ITT scope, format, and terms.
172
How to ensure fairness/transparency in evaluation?
| Procurement & Tendering
Use published criteria, equal info, records, manage conflicts.
173
Purpose of a scoring matrix?
| Procurement & Tendering
Structured, comparable scoring vs set criteria/weights.
174
What is a tender recommendation report and contents?
| Procurement & Tendering
Summary of process, evaluation, levelling adjustments, advised award.
175
For Fenix Mayfair, what information did you request within the EOI?
| Procurement & Tendering
1. Project Team
2. Foreseeable Risks
3. confirmation of interest
4. Financial Information
5. References
6. Insurances
7.
176
RICS guidance available on procurement/tendering?
| Procurement & Tendering
RICS ‘Tendering Strategies’ and ‘Procurement of Construction Works’ guidance notes.
177
What does ‘Tendering Strategies’ cover?
| Procurement & Tendering
Methods, processes, selection criteria, best practice for fairness/transparency.
178
What is OJEU/Find a Tender and when applies?
| Procurement & Tendering
UK notice service for above‑threshold public procurements.
179
Difference between serial tendering and framework?
| Procurement & Tendering
Serial: repeated similar projects via agreed rates; Framework: call‑offs from pre‑selected suppliers.
180
What is an abnormally low tender and how handled?
| Procurement & Tendering
Price far below others; seek justification; reject if unsustainable.
181
What is MEAT?
| Procurement & Tendering
Most Economically Advantageous Tender – best value on price + quality.
182
Levelling vs normalising?
| Procurement & Tendering
Levelling adds allowances for gaps; normalising aligns assumptions.
183
Under Management Contracting, who pays trade contractors?
| Procurement & Tendering
Management contractor – they hold the trade contracts.
184
Is open tendering the cheapest method?
| Procurement & Tendering
Not necessarily; quality and risk may suffer, leading to higher outturn.
185
Must a non‑compliant tender be rejected?
Not always; minor irregularities can be clarified (public sector stricter).
186
Public procurement: can you negotiate after selection?
| Procurement & Tendering
Generally no – only clarifications without material changes.
187
Price‑only award always acceptable?
| Procurement & Tendering
Private: possible but poor practice; Public: only if pre‑declared and compliant.
188
What is the Procurement Act and what are some of their aims?
| Procurement & Tendering
A Uk Legislation; Introduces a new public procurement regime
Aims:
1. Central Digital Platform (CDP) - A new enhanced Find a Tender service that stores supplier PQQ information, reducing duplication on public sector bids
2. Supplier Performance Monitoring - Suppliers that fail to perform may be debarred from future opportunities
3. Pipeline Transparency - Public sector clients spending over £100m per year must now publish their procurement pipelines on the CDP, giving us greater visibility of opportunities
189
What is Prime contracting?
| Procurement & Tendering
A Government developed procurement model where a single contractor manages the whole supply chain
190
Where would you find the recommended amount of tenderers for aprocurement stategy?
| Procurement & Tendering
RICS Guidance Note: Tendering Strategies 2010
191
If a tender is non-compliant, must it be rejected automatically?
| Procurement & Tendering
No - If it is a minor issue and doesnt breach procurement rules, it can be clarifgied and corrected
Public Procurement is striter, but private section has more flexibility
192
What are the different methods of dealing with errors?
| Procurement & Tendering
1. Alternative 1
2. Alternative 2
193
How does the procurement Act 2023, make public procurement more transparent?
| Procurement & Tendering
Make Public bodies publish more information about procurement activities
194
According to the CDM regs, before a contractor can be appointed, what must they be?
| Procurement & Tendering
They must confirm they “Have the skills, knowledge, expertise and organisational capability to carry out the work safely” &
Can demonstrate adequate resources to manage H&S
195
What is Alternative Option 1?
| Procurement & Tendering
Stand by their bid - Confirm or withdraw
196
What is Alternative Option 2?
| Procurement & Tendering
Allows the contractor to ammend the error
197
What is the benefit of Alternative 1?
| Procurement & Tendering
Most fair an transparent way of dealing with erros
198
What is the negative of Alternative 1?
| Procurement & Tendering
Might result in the most suitable/competitive tenderer having to withdraw
199
What is the benefit of Alternative 2?
| Procurement & Tendering
Ensures maxium competition
200
What is con of Alternative 2?
| Procurement & Tendering
Could be considered unfair
201
What document would you expect to include in a tener pack for a D&B project?
| Procurement & Tendering
1. Invitation to tender
2. Employer’s Requirements
3. Contreact conditions & Ammendments
4. Preliminaries & General Conditions
5. Pricing Document
6. Drawings and Specifications
7. Form of Tender
202
For selective tendering how many contractors should you go out to?
| Procurement & Tendering
Typically 4-6
203
For Two stage how many contractors should you go out to?
| Procurement & Tendering
3-4
204
What happens if a tender is late?
| Procurement & Tendering
1. Safest Option is to not consider
2. Private Client - It is at their own discression - Advice on risk
3. Public Client - Cannot be accepted, if it is a few minutes late then a judgement call can be made
205
For the Allwyn Watford Projec, why did you recommend D&B?
| Procurement & Tendering
1. Tight Programme - Contractor could start work and design early
2. Budegt Certainty
3. Single Point of responsibility
4. Transfer Design Risk
206
A cleint asks whether to includ a PQQ in a small negotaied contract, what advice would you give?
| Procurement & Tendering
Not essential if known contractor
Shoud still check the following:
a. Insurances
b. Company accounts
c. Capacity
207
Your client asks to invite 10 contractors to a selective single stage tender, what advise would you give?
| Procurement & Tendering
RICS Suggest 4-6
To many reduces quality and competitiveness
Advice on risk
Longer to assess all tenders
208
When would you not use a D&B procurement route?
| Procurement & Tendering
Client wants design control
Complex Project/Design
Design is complete
When client wants to be heavily involced
209
When did the procurement act 2023 come into force?
| Procurement & Tendering
February 24th 2025
210
If all contractors had all submitted tenders above budget, what options do you have?
| Procurement & Tendering
1. VE
2. Re-tender
3. Negotiate
211
According to the RICS Guidance note “Tendering Stategies”, what are the different methods of normalising the tenders?
| Procurement & Tendering
1. Use an Average of the submitted costs
2. Use the highest price from the returns
3. Use a cost plan allowance
212
What are the two types of FCU's?
| Constuction Tech
1. Two pipe FCU
2. Four Pipe FCU
213
Considerations when choosing an appropriate HVAC system?
| Construction Tech
1. Space Availability
2. Running Costs
3. Unfront Costs
214
What does HVAC system?
| Construction Tech
Heating Ventilation & Air Conditions
215
When was the BCO Fit out guide published?
| Construction Tech
2009
216
How does electricity come from the grid?
| Construction tech
1. Electricity generated (Fossil fuels, Renewables & nuclear Power)
2. Transfered to the national grid
3. Electricity travels through overhead lines
4. Step downs transformation to local substations
217
What voltage does electricity enter a building?
| Construction Tech
400v
218
What is the title of NRM1?
| Design Economics
NRM1: Order of Cost Estimating and Cost Planning for Capital Building Works
219
What is the title of NRM2?
| Design Economics
NRM2: Detailed measurement for building works
220
What does BSI stand for?
| Construction tech
British Standards Institutions
221
What is ISO?
| Construction tech
International Organisation for Standardisation
222
What amendment to Option C would you do?
| Contract Practise
Unamended: Employer is responsible for insuring the existing structures and its contents and the Contractor insures the works and materials.
C1. Replacement Schedule: Employer extends the their insurance to include for works under a joint name policy for “All works”.
223
What is the title of NRM3?
| Design Economics
NRM3: Order of cost estimating and cost planning for building maintenance works
224
What is IPMS all buildings?
| Design Economics
It provides a unified method of measurement for all types of buildings (offices, residential, retail, industrial, etc.), replacing the need for separate IPMS standards for each building type.
225
What takes precedence of Code of measurement practise & IPMS?
| Design Economics
IPMS
226
What is included within the NIA (Occupier Area) according to IPMS?
| Design Economics
Included:
Usable spaces such as offices, meeting rooms, work areas, and storage rooms.
Excluded:
- External walls and structural columns.
- Vertical penetrations (e.g. lift shafts, flues, stairwells).
227
What are 5 examples of exclusions I use on my cost plans?
| Design Economics
1. Client direct packages
2. Professional Fees
3. Land Acquisition COsts
4. VAT
5. Inflation
228
What is the G&T TPI rate?
| Design Economics
2.35
229
When would you use a minor works contract?
| Contract Practise
Small simple projects
2.Projects with minimal design responsibility for the contractor - The employer (or their designer) provides the full design.
Generally for projects below ~£500,000–£1m
230
What would be some examples of signs of a contractor going insolvent.
| Contract Practise
1. Late payment to sub-contractors
2. Requests for accelerated payments
3. Front loading
4. Rumours
231
What is the formal process of change on SBC?
| Contract Practise
Depends if the works are contractor or Client led
1. SBC - CA / Architect to raise a change form,
2. I would then assess the value of the works.
3. Then get sign off - Contractor to raise their costs
232
Who values the payless notice?
| Contract Practise
EA or QS
233
Do you claim retention on Loss and Expense
| Contract Practise
No - only to get the contractor back into the position if the R.M never happened
234
How do you build up from “first principals”
| Quantification of Construction works
1. Gather all of the relevant information
2.Labour, materials & Plant - OH&P
235
What are the disadvantages of not using NRM1?
| Design Economics
Move away form the standardised set of rules
236
What are the benefits of NRM1
| Design Economics
1. standardized
2. Easier to compare
237
If during a PQQ, a contractor had dealt with larger projects than the proposed project. WHat would yoy advise your client?
1. Whilst they may have the expertise and knowledge of similar style projects they may not be use to a quick programme and
2. Might not put forward their A team
238
What is the different types of asbestos?
| Construction tech
239
When was control of abeststos brought in?
| Construction tech
240
When doing your tender Analysis for the Fenix Mayfair Project, what are some examples of items you levelled
| Procurement & Tendering - Fenix Levelling
241
What is quicker construction management quicker or management contracting ?
| Procurement & Tendering
242
What are some different typs of excavations?
| Construction tech
1. Top Soil
2. Trech Excavation
3. Earth Excavation
243
What are the mechanisms under a contract to protect the client against insolvencies?
| Contract Practise
1. Performance Bond
2. Collateral Warrenties
3. Parent Company Gaurentee
4. Vesting Certificates
244
What is the risk of making alot of ammendments in a contract?
| Contract Practise
1. Legal Fees
2. Chnage the balance of risk
3. Not as much case law to fall back on
245
What are the differences between collateral warrenty and thrid Party right?
| Contract Practise
1. CW: Separate contract - More paperwork /tailored
2. TPR: Automatic Mechanism that produces those mutual terms
246
How are LD's deducted?
| Contract practise
1. EA/CA has to issue a non-completion certificate
2. We must notify the Contractor that the employer intends to deduct LD's
3. Deduct the LD's from the total amount in the interim valuation or the EA/CA must allow for a pay less notice
247
What are the two types of inflation?
| Design Economics
1. Tender Inflation
2. Construction Inflation
248
When is Tender inflation measured from?
| Design Economics
The period from the estimate base date to the date of tender return
249
When is Construction inflation measured from?
| Design Economics
The period from the date of tender return to the mid-point of the construction period.
250
251
What is a cantilevered Staircase?
| Construction Tech
a modern design where the steps (treads) are anchored to a solid wall on one end, appearing to be suspended in mid-air with no visible support underneath
252
What is a Helical Staircase?
| Construction Tech
a curved staircase with a continuous, flowing arc that does not have a central support column
253
What is a Dog legged staircase?
| Construction Tech
A type of staircase with two flights of stairs that run in opposite directions, separated by a mid-landing, and connected by a 180-degree turn
254
What is the benefits of using a Steel concrete frame over a Concrete?
| Construction Tech
1. Easier to erect
2. Can be built pre-cast off site
3. Castellations can used so can install services through it
255
What is the benefits of using a timber frame of concrete frame?
| Construction Tech
1. Pre-fabricated
2. Lighter so can be easier to install
3. If sustainably sources it is renewable
256
What is the disadvantages of using a Timber frame instead of a concrete frame?
| Construction Tech
1. Timber needs fire treatement
2. TImber is susceptible to rotting and loosing its structural integrity
257
What are the benefits of using a Concrete frame over a Steel frame?
| Construction Tech
1. Concrete doesn't need fire treatment
2. Better sound insulation between floors
3. More durable
258
259
What are some uses for CLT?
1. Low- medium rise buildings
2. Walls, floors and roofs
260
What are the main benefits of CLT?
1. Sustainable
2. Lightweight
3. Prefabricated offsitr
261
What are drawbacks of CLT?
1. Fire Performances
2. Limited in height
262
What does VRV stand for?
| Construction Tech
Variable Refriderant Volume
263
What does VRF stand for?
| Construction Tech
Variable Refrigerent Flow
264
What is the difference between VRV & VRF systems
| Construction Tech
Functionally nothing - VRV is used only for Daikin products who invented it.
VRF is used for other manufacturers (Mitsubushi, Toshiba, LG)
265
How does a VRF system work?
| Construction Tech
A central outdoor condensing unit connects to multiple indoor fan coil units via refrigerant pipework.
Each indoor unit can operate independently, controlling its temperature.
266
How does a FCU work?
| Construction Tech
A water based system
1. A central Plant (A chiller and boiler room)
2. Pipes going from the plant room feeding water to the Fan coil unit
3. Water is passed over the coils either producing warm or cold air which is sent into the room
4. Water is then sent back to the plant room
267
What are the differences between a VRF system and FCU?
| Construction Tech
VRF/VRV - Uses refrigerent as both heating and cooling
FCU - Part of a Chilled Water system
268
What is a refridgerant system?
| Construction tech
A refrigerant system is a closed loop that moves heat from one place to another using a special fluid called refrigerant
It absorbs heat in one area and releases it in another, allowing air-conditioning systems to cool or heat spaces efficiently.
269
Why would you go for a FCU instead of a VRF system?
| Construction Tech
1. FCU are better for large buildings because it uses water instead of refridgerent
2. VRF systems have limts of pipe lengths
3. Centralised plant, making it easier to maintain, upgrade or replace
4. VRF systems carry large amounts f refrigerant gas
270
Why would you use a VRF/VRF system instead of a FCU?
| Construction Tech
1. More Energy efficient - Only uses the exact amount needed
2. Faster and simpler installation - No need for central chillers or boilers
271
WHat is a Cassett system?
| Construction Tech
An air conditioning unit - part of a VRF system.
A refridgerent cooling system
Blows air out in four different direction
272
Why would you use a Universal Beam over a Fabsec Beam?
| Construction Tech
1. Lower COsts - Unversal Beams are standard off the shelf beams
2. SImpler Designs
3. SHorter Lead times
273
Why would you use a Fabsec Beam over a Universal beam
| Construction tech
1. Integreate services
2. Reduce floor depth
3. Aesthethic - Do not need to build a bulkhead around the service
274
How does steel rebar make conrete stronger?
| Construction Tech
Steel is very strong in tension, so it takes the tensile forces that concrete cannot handle.
| Think: concrete is good at being pushed, bad at being pulled.
275
What is the difference between a Framework agreement and Serial tendering?
| Procurement and Tendering?
Serial tendering reuses the same contractor and tendered rates across a series of similar projects, while framework tendering pre-appoints one or more contractors through a formal long-term agreement to deliver multiple projects over a set period
276
When would you use serial tendering?
| Procurement & Tendering
You’d use serial tendering when a client has a series of similar or repetitive projects to deliver — and it would be inefficient to tender each one separately.
277
When wouldn't you use serial tendering?
| Procurement & Tendering
1. If the projects differ significantly in design, size, or complexity.
2. If maintaining competitive tension across multiple suppliers is important.
3. For public sector projects, where frameworks or open competitions are often required under procurement regulations.
278
Why would you use a framwork agreement over serial tendering?
| Procurement & Tendering
Frameworks can cover different types and sizes of projects, not just repetitive ones.
They allow call-off contracts for varying scopes — e.g. new builds, refurbishments, maintenance.
Serial tendering only really works when projects are almost identical in nature.
Frameworks usually have several approved contractors, and each new project can involve a mini-competition.
This keeps prices competitive and drives continuous improvement.
279
What is Tanking in regards to a waterproof basement?
| Construction Tech
Continuous waterproof membrane or coatingto all surfaces in contact with the ground — usually walls and floors.
forms a watertight “box” around the interior space.
280
What Is a Drainage Cavity System?
| Construction Tech
it manages any water that seeps through the structure by collecting and redirecting it away — keeping the internal space dry.
| Think of it like giving water a hidden “escape route” rather than fighti
281
Who pays for a perfomance bond?
| Tendering & Procurement
Contractor
282
What are the different WELL Scores criteria brackets?
Bronze = XX Points
Silver = XX Points
Gold = XX Points
Platinum = XX Points
| Sustainability
B = 40-49 points
S = 50-59 point
G = 60-70 points
P = 80+ points
283
WHo developed the IPMS
| Quantification of Costing
The IPMS Coalition
RICS and 80+ international property organisations
284
Why was IPMS brought in?
| Quantification of Costing
Because measurement methods varied globally (e.g. UK used GIA/NIA, US used BOMA), making comparisons inconsistent. IPMS creates transparency and comparability across markets.
285
What does the 2023 “All Buildings” version do?
| Quantification of Costing
It replaces all previous IPMS standards (Office, Residential, Industrial, Retail) and combines them into one harmonised standard for all building types.
286
What is meant by “Internal Dominant Face (IDF)”?
| Quantification of Costing
The inside surface that makes up more than 50% of the wall height up to 2.75m — used as the reference line for internal measurements.
287
What are the six IPMS standards under “All Buildings”?
| Quantification of Costing
IPMS 1 – External measurement (whole building)
2️⃣ IPMS 2 – Internal measurement (whole building)
3️⃣ IPMS 3.1 – Exclusive use area (external measurement)
4️⃣ IPMS 3.2 – Exclusive use area (internal measurement)
5️⃣ IPMS 4.1 – Selected areas (includes walls/columns)
6️⃣ IPMS 4.2 – Selected areas (excludes walls/columns)
288
What’s the difference between IPMS 1 and IPMS 2?
| Quantification of Costing
IPMS 1: Measured to the external face of external walls — used for comparing total building size (like GEA).
IPMS 2: Measured to the Internal Dominant Face (IDF) — used for internal planning and cost analysis (similar to GIA).
289
Which IPMS is most similar to GIA and NIA?
| Quantification of Costing
IPMS 2 ≈ GIA (Gross Internal Area)
IPMS 3.2 ≈ NIA (Net Internal Area)
290
What’s the key difference between IPMS and NRM?
| Quantification of Costing
IPMS = how we measure building areas (m²).
NRM (New Rules of Measurement) = how we measure and classify construction work and costs (£/m²).
291
What is the difference betweena CA and EA?
| Contract Practise
Similarities: Both are appointed to administer the contract
CA:
- acts independantly between employer and contractor
EA:
- As solely in the employers interest
292
What is value management?
| Design Economics
Overaching approach to identifying opportunities to increase value
293
What is the difference between Value Engineering and Value Management?
| Design Economics
Value Management: Overaching process to find value for a client - happens at all stages of project lifecycle
Value Engineering: Find cheaper alternatives
294
Examples of Relevant Event?
| Contract Practise
1. Variations instructed by the Employer
2. Force majeure
3. Late issue of Employer’s instructions or information
295
Examples of Relevant matter?
| Contract practise
1. Variations
2. Disruption casued by Employer
3. Failure to give possession of site
296
Under a D&B 2024 contract, what is the timeline of events for clsoing out the final account?
| Contract Practise
1. Notice of practical completion is issued
2. Contractor must issue their final account statement
3. If the contractor does not submit a Final statement within 3 months PC, the employer may give a notice to the contractor that unless a statement is submitted within 2 months from the date of notice then the Employer may issue a final statement
4. Due date for theFinal payment
297
Different types of LOI?
| Contract practise
1. Comfort Letter
2. Instruction to proceed with consent to Spend
3. Recognition of the existence of a binding contract
298
Examples of Contract Particulars?
299
What are the Key Principle of the Construction Act?
| Contract Practise
300
What legislation are you aware of that affects Construction Contracts?
| Contract Practise
301
How often would you ask the contractor for an updated Cashflow?
| Contract Practise
1. Fit out - Due to the short programme I would typically only allow for one a t contract execution
2. Longer programme - I would ask for one every 3 months to account for variations
302
What is the change control process on a D&B project
| Contract Practise
1️⃣ Contractor or designer raises potential change (RFI / technical query).
2️⃣ EA or QS issues a Change Request Form to assess impact. (CRF)
3️⃣ Contractor provides cost and programme quotation.
4️⃣ QS assesses and negotiates the change.
5️⃣ EA issues a formal Change Instruction (EAI) confirming whether to proceed.
6️⃣ QS tracks change in Change Control Register or Variation Log.
7️⃣ Agreed value reflected in next payment and cost report.
| Request → Quotation → Instruction → Value → Payment.
303
What is a movement joist?
| Construction Tech
Movement joints are separations that divide large floor areas into smaller, manageable panels so that expansion and contraction occur without random cracking.
304
For Allwyn L5, What what was the sound increase from each room and for each option?
| Construction Tech
Board rooms and CEO Offices = Acoustic Fabric & Slab to slab partitions - 59db
Client facing Meeting rooms - 53db = Slab to slab
Phone booths - 45db = Acoustic abrrier and Fabric panel
305
As a landlord, how do you make the space more future proof and flexible?
| Construction tech
1. More bandrusters (busbars)
2. More grommets
306
When agreeing a Final Account for Allwyn level 5, how did you review the oustanding change?
| Contract Practise
On a case by case basis
307
On your D&B project, how the design process coordinated?
| Contract Practise
Status A - Design has been fully reviewed and agreeed
Status B - Change has been reviewed with few comments
Status C - Large amounts of works to complete
308
What is the difference between early use and partial possession?
| Contract Practise
Partial Possession = formal contractural handover
Early Use = informal arrangement with contractor’s consent
309
Do you release retention with partial possession?
| Contract Practise
yes
310
What is Insurance Option A
| Contract Practise
Option A – New Build (Contractor takes full responsibility)
311
What is Insurance Option B
| Contract Pracitse
Option B – Works to Existing Structures (Employer insures existing structure)
312
What is insurance Option C
| Contract Practise
Option C – Works to Existing Structures (Employer unable to insure existing structure)
313
What is a C.1 Replacement Schedule
| Contract Practise
A bespoke amendment or replacement of the standard JCT Schedule C that’s included when the standard insurance options (A, B, C) don’t fit the project circumstances.
314
What is a scenario where a C.1 replacement schedule is needed?
| Contract Practise
The Employer is a tenant and cannot insure the existing structure (so Option B doesn’t fit).
315
When is a C.1 replacement schedule used?
| Contract Practise
Typically in fit-out, refurbishment, or tenant projects where no single party can insure all risks under Options A–C.
316
What stage did you tender the Fenix mayfair project at?
| Contract practise
Stage 3
317
Example of project Contingencies?
| Project financial control
XXXX
318
For the Goodwin Procter project, what were the finishes you reviewed?
| Construction tech
1. Vinyl - Cheapest
2. Timber - Mid
3. Terrazzo
319
When advising on a staircase, what are some consideration from a building regs point of view that need to be considered?
| Construction tech
Contrasting stair nosing (visually distinct edge, typically 55 mm wide).
Slip-resistant strip (rubber, brass, aluminium with insert).
Consistent rise and going dimensions across all treads.
320
321
322
What is a standstill period?
| Procurement & tendering
Mandatory pause pre‑award in public procurement to allow challenges.
323
QS role at Level 1 in procurement/tendering?
| Procurement & tendering
Advise on routes; prepare docs; run fair tender; evaluate and report.
324
What are the different types of insurances that a contractor should provide within tender?
| Procurement and Tendering
1. Public Liability
2. Employers Liability
3. Contractor's all risk policy
325
Within your levelling for the Fenix Mayfiar Project, what items did you level in for?
| Procurement & Tendering
Firm:
1. Allowance for Demo & Enabling works
2. Reduced quants for Altro floor finishes
G&T levelling:
1. Entrance Door
2. Drappery
326
Does a Deed need consideration?
| Contract Practise
No - As the formality shows enough intent to create legal relations.
327
Does a underhand contract need consideration?
| Contract Practise
Yes
328
Is there a time frame stated within the JCT D&B to review a change request?
| Contract Practise
No - However it does state that the client should respond within a "reasonable time"
APC - Document Specific Questions
flashcards
Decks in class (18)
# Cards
-
Technical Competencies338
-
Mandatory Competencies139
-
Case Study54
-
Ethics171
-
Definitions143
-
SOE Examples - Mandatory125
-
SOE Examples - Technical54
-
General Benchmarking Costs - Rates for Fit out31
-
NRM1 & NRM 227
-
Final Prep Questions49
-
ROC - ROC Behavoiurs5
-
VE for Louis Manchester5
-
Louis - Case Study2
-
IPMS4
-
M&E1
-
Case STudy - Beam Size8
-
Data Protection Penalties1
-
Contract Ammendments1
