BOQ – Bill of Quantity: Complete Guide for Civil Engineers
By Afroz Civil
What is BOQ (Bill of Quantity)?
A Bill of Quantity (BOQ) is a structured document prepared by a Quantity Surveyor or Estimator that lists every item of work along with its description, quantity, unit of measurement, rate, and total amount.
It is developed based on approved drawings and project specifications and follows standard measurement methods.
BOQ brings accuracy, clarity, and transparency to project costing and tendering.
Objectives of BOQ
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To provide item-wise detailed quantities for all project components
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To offer a uniform basis for contractor bidding
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To ensure accuracy in estimation and tender comparison
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To avoid disputes during execution and billing
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To support interim and final bill preparation
Applicable Standards
BOQ preparation follows these major codes and references:
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IS 1200 – Method of Measurement of Building & Civil Works
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CPWD Works Manual & DSR
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MoRTH Specifications (for road and highway works)
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National Building Code (NBC) Guidelines
BOQ Preparation Process
1. Study of Drawings & Specifications
All architectural, structural, and service drawings are thoroughly studied to understand the complete scope of work.
2. Quantity Take-Off
Accurate measurements are taken from drawings to calculate item-wise quantities.
3. Apply Standard Units (As per IS 1200)
Each item is measured using standardized units such as:
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Earthwork — Cubic Metre
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Concrete — Cubic Metre
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Brickwork — Cubic Metre
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Formwork — Square Metre
4. Prepare the Detailed BOQ Sheet
The BOQ is prepared with columns including item number, description, unit, quantity, rate, and amount.
5. Prepare Abstract of Cost
A summarized cost sheet is generated showing the total value of all items.
Sample BOQ Format
| Item No. | Description | Unit | Quantity | Rate (₹) | Amount (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Earthwork in excavation (manual/mechanical) | m³ | 50 | 200 | 10,000 |
| 2 | PCC 1:4:8 with 40 mm aggregate | m³ | 15 | 4500 | 67,500 |
| 3 | Brick masonry with Class 75 FPS bricks in CM 1:6 | m³ | 30 | 5000 | 1,50,000 |
Importance of BOQ in Construction Projects
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Ensures accurate and transparent project costing
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Helps compare contractor tenders effectively
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Supports quantity and cost control throughout the project
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Facilitates clear billing and reduces disputes
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Defines the exact scope of work for all stakeholders
Download Professional Tools
Get ready-made BOQ formats, rate analysis templates, quantity take-off sheets, and complete estimation tools designed by Afroz Civil to enhance your professional productivity.
📥 FREE DOWNLOAD for Civil Engineers
From this link, you will get 👇
1️⃣ DSR Volume 01 & 02
2️⃣ CPWD Specifications
3️⃣ IS 1200 – All Parts
4️⃣ MORTH (Ministry of Road Transport & Highways)
5️⃣ NBC (National Building Code) PDF
🔗 Download Now: Click Here
💰 Pay ₹49 and Download Now 👉 You are not just paying for files — you are supporting the Afroz Civil Team 🙌. This small contribution helps us keep creating and sharing valuable resources for all Civil Engineers. From this link, you will get 👇 1️⃣ BOQ Sample Format – Excel & PDF (as per DSR & IS 1200) 2️⃣ BOQ for Civil Works & MEP Works – Excel (Of Completed Projects) 3️⃣ Measurement Sheet (MB) Format – Excel Sheet 4️⃣ Lecture PPT & PDF 5️⃣ Drawings ( Civil Structure, Civil Finishing, Road, Drain, Culvert , Chimney etc. & PEB Work) 🔗 Download Now: Click Here
Conclusion
A BOQ is the backbone of project estimation, tendering, billing, and execution. It ensures accuracy, clarity, and systematic cost management throughout the construction process.
Mastering BOQ preparation is essential for every Civil Engineer, Estimator, Quantity Surveyor, and Billing Engineer.
Watch BOQ Preparation Process :
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