What is a Bill of Quantities (BOQ) – and Why Does Your Project Need One?

When it comes to construction projects — whether it’s building a new home, developing townhouses, or tackling a commercial fit-out — one document plays a central role in making sure everything runs on time, on budget, and according to plan: the Bill of Quantities (BOQ).

If you’re a builder, homeowner, architect, or developer, and you’ve heard the term but never quite understood what a BOQ is (or why it matters), you’re not alone. Let’s break it down in plain English.

What is a BOQ?

A Bill of Quantities (BOQ) is a detailed, itemised list of all the materials, labour, and trades required to complete a construction project. It’s prepared by a quantity surveyor or construction estimator based on architectural drawings, engineering plans, and specifications.

Each line item in a BOQ includes:
– A description of the work
– The quantity
– The unit of measurement
– The rate
– The total cost

The final BOQ gives you the total estimated cost of the project and breaks it down into trades — concrete, carpentry, roofing, plaster, tiling, joinery, plumbing, electrical, and so on.

Why is a BOQ So Important?

There are four big reasons a BOQ matters:
1. It puts everyone on the same page
2. It makes tendering fair and competitive
3. It reduces the risk of budget blowouts
4. It gives you control

Who Prepares the BOQ?

BOQs are typically prepared by quantity surveyors or estimating consultants like us at Matrix Estimating. We work with builders, architects, developers, and owner-builders to review drawings and specifications, measure each element using software, and produce a fully costed trade-by-trade breakdown.

What’s Included in a BOQ?

A typical BOQ includes:
– Preliminaries
– Substructure
– Structure
– Internal & External Finishes
– Services
– Joinery & Fixtures
– External Works

Each is broken down into clearly described, measured, and priced items.

How Does an Estimator Create a BOQ?

Steps include:
1. Review the drawings
2. Measure quantities digitally
3. Apply trade rates
4. Organise by trade
5. Check for gaps or clashes
6. Deliver the BOQ in editable formats.

What a BOQ Is Not

It’s not a quotation, not a scope of works, and not a contract — though it often forms part of building contracts.

Who Uses the BOQ?

Used by clients, builders, QSs, banks, and project managers to assess cost, manage claims, and make informed decisions.

When Should You Get a BOQ?

Ideal before tendering, contract signing, or engaging trades. It’s also valuable during feasibility planning.

Final Word

A BOQ is a powerful document that delivers cost clarity and control. At Matrix Estimating, we offer builder-informed, real-world estimating that saves time and money.