Category: Quantities & pricing
Prepared by Eng. Ahmed Fathy, Projects Manager ·
Definition
BOQ preambles come before the items and set the method of measurement, what each unit rate includes (materials, labour, plant, waste, transport and testing), currency, VAT and how unpriced items are treated.
Why it matters on a project
They settle questions such as whether the tiling rate includes adhesive and grout, or whether excavation includes cart away. Leaving them out opens the door to claims.
Common mistake
Pricing items without reading the preambles, missing costs they state are included in the rate.
Frequently asked questions
Are the preambles part of the contract?
Yes when the BOQ is a contract document, and rates are interpreted by them in disputes.
What if preambles conflict with an item description?
The contract's order of precedence decides, usually with the specific description over the general.
Related terms
- Bill of quantities (BOQ)A list of work items with description, unit and quantity, priced item by item.
- Method of measurementThe agreed rules for measuring each BOQ item.
- Unit rateThe item price per unit of measure, built from material, labour and equipment then indirect costs and profit.
- Tender documents (conditions)The documents defining tender conditions, specifications and evaluation criteria.
Read next
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