Quantity surveying and preparing interim payment certificates are fundamental processes in construction project management. They play a crucial role in tracking progress, evaluating performance, and settling accounts between the contractor and the client.
Quantity surveying is the process of measuring the actual quantities of work performed on-site and comparing them to the quantities listed in the BoQ. It includes:
Engineering Surveying: Measuring actual quantities based on engineering drawings and technical specifications.
Contractor’s Surveying: Measuring quantities used by the contractor, including materials, labor, and equipment.
An interim payment certificate is a detailed statement that includes the executed quantities for each item and their corresponding financial values. IPCs are typically prepared periodically, often monthly, to evaluate project progress and settle accounts.
Understanding the BoQ:
Fully understand the BoQ items, including descriptions, quantities, and unit prices.
Preparation:
Prepare necessary measuring tools, such as measuring tapes, surveying equipment, and others.
Conducting Quantity Surveying:
On-Site Measurement: Survey the site to record actual quantities of work completed.
Noting Changes: Record any changes compared to the original BoQ, such as increases, decreases, or design modifications.
Documentation: Document the surveying results in specific tables or forms, including photographs and illustrative drawings if needed.
Preparing the IPC:
Data Collection: Gather data from the quantity surveying, including executed quantities and unit prices.
Calculating Values: Compute the financial value of each item by multiplying the quantity by the unit price.
Adding Other Costs: Include additional costs, such as extra materials, machinery, or labor.
Verification: Check the accuracy of calculations and the certificate before submission.
Reviewing the IPC:
Resident Engineer Review: The resident engineer reviews the IPC for accuracy and completeness.
Client Review: The client reviews and approves the IPC before making payments to the contractor.
FIDIC Standards: Widely used in engineering project contracts, providing a general framework for quantity surveying and IPC preparation.
ISO Standards: The International Organization for Standardization offers standards covering various aspects of project and construction management, including quantity surveying and IPCs.
National Standards: Each country has its own national standards for quantity surveying and IPC preparation, which may differ from international standards.
Progress Evaluation: Helps assess work progress compared to the planned schedule.
Actual Cost Determination: Determines the actual project costs and compares them to initial estimates.
Account Settlement: Facilitates fair and accurate account settlement between the contractor and client.
Error Detection: Identifies errors or deficiencies in the BoQ or work execution.
Collaboration: Ensure close cooperation between the contractor, client, and resident engineer for accurate quantity surveying and IPC preparation.
Proper Documentation: Keep detailed records of all data and measurements.
Regular Updates: Update the quantity surveying and IPCs periodically to reflect project changes.
Use of Software: Leverage computer software to simplify calculations and IPC preparation.
Quantity surveying and IPC preparation are essential for the successful management of construction projects. By following proper procedures and adhering to global standards, accuracy and professionalism in these processes can be ensured.