Category: Quantities & pricing
Prepared by Eng. Ahmed Fathy, Projects Manager ·
Definition
A lump-sum item is a BOQ line priced as one total amount, such as temporary facilities, commissioning tests or the project signboard, where breaking it into quantities is impractical. It is not remeasured and is usually paid in agreed stages.
Why it matters on a project
It keeps pricing simple, but carries risk for the contractor if the scope is unclear, and for the owner if it is paid in full before the work is done.
Common mistake
Pricing a lump-sum item from a one-line description without reading the specification, then finding the scope is larger than priced.
Frequently asked questions
How is a lump-sum item paid?
In stages or percentages agreed in the contract, not in full with the first valuation.
Can a lump-sum item change?
It is not remeasured, but an owner-ordered change in scope is a variation.
Related terms
- PreliminariesItems at the start of the BOQ covering general site requirements.
- Bill of quantities (BOQ)A list of work items with description, unit and quantity, priced item by item.
- Lump-sum contractA fixed-price contract for a defined scope; the contractor carries the quantity risk.
- BOQ preamblesThe conditions and definitions that state what each rate includes.
Read next
Does your project need quantity take-off and BOQ pricing? Send the drawings or a short description and we reply within one working day.
Service detailsRequest a quote