Anticipated Final Account
In the UK construction industry, "Anticipated Final Account" (often referred to simply as "Anticipated Final") refers to the projected final cost of a construction project. This figure includes all expected expenses up to the completion of the project, considering any known changes, variations, and adjustments that might occur during the construction process. It is is a dynamic and continuously updated estimate of the total expected cost of a construction project. It plays a crucial role in budget management, cost control, and financial planning, helping ensure the project is completed within the anticipated financial parameters.
- It helps project managers and stakeholders keep track of the overall budget. By continually updating this figure, they can anticipate potential cost overruns and take corrective measures to manage the project within the approved budget.
- It accounts for all variations and changes to the original contract scope. This includes any additional work requested by the client, unforeseen circumstances, or necessary adjustments to the project plan.
- It serves as a tool for cost control, allowing stakeholders to compare the current anticipated costs with the original budget or contract sum. Any significant deviations can trigger discussions on cost-saving measures or the need for additional funding.
- It is used for financial forecasting and reporting. It provides a realistic picture of the project's financial status, which is essential for cash flow management and financial planning.
- By regularly updating the Anticipated Final, project managers can monitor the financial progress of the project. This helps in identifying and addressing any cost-related issues early on.
- It is a vital communication tool for keeping clients informed about the financial status of the project. Regular updates on the Anticipated Final help manage client expectations and ensure transparency.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Accounting.
- Campaign for cash retentions reform.
- Contract sum.
- Contract sum analysis.
- Cost consultant.
- Cost plans.
- Cost reporting.
- Cost value reconciliation.
- Defects.
- Final account.
- Final certificate.
- Fluctuations.
- Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act.
- Liquidated damages.
- Loss and expense.
- New Rules of Measurement.
- Outturn cost.
- Pre-tender estimate.
- Prime cost sums.
- Provisional sums.
- Retention bond.
- Scott schedule.
- Tender pricing document
- Variations.
- Whole-life costs.
Featured articles and news
A case study and a warning to would-be developers
Creating four dwellings for people to come home to... after half a century of doing this job, why, oh why, is it so difficult?
Reform of the fire engineering profession
Fire Engineers Advisory Panel: Authoritative Statement, reactions and next steps.
Restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster
A complex project of cultural significance from full decant to EMI, opportunities and a potential a way forward.
Apprenticeships and the responsibility we share
Perspectives from the CIOB President as National Apprentice Week comes to a close.
The first line of defence against rain, wind and snow.
Building Safety recap January, 2026
What we missed at the end of last year, and at the start of this...
National Apprenticeship Week 2026, 9-15 Feb
Shining a light on the positive impacts for businesses, their apprentices and the wider economy alike.
Applications and benefits of acoustic flooring
From commercial to retail.
From solid to sprung and ribbed to raised.
Strengthening industry collaboration in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Institute of Construction and The Chartered Institute of Building sign Memorandum of Understanding.
A detailed description from the experts at Cornish Lime.
IHBC planning for growth with corporate plan development
Grow with the Institute by volunteering and CP25 consultation.
Connecting ambition and action for designers and specifiers.
Electrical skills gap deepens as apprenticeship starts fall despite surging demand says ECA.
Built environment bodies deepen joint action on EDI
B.E.Inclusive initiative agree next phase of joint equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) action plan.
Recognising culture as key to sustainable economic growth
Creative UK Provocation paper: Culture as Growth Infrastructure.
Futurebuild and UK Construction Week London Unite
Creating the UK’s Built Environment Super Event and over 25 other key partnerships.
Welsh and Scottish 2026 elections
Manifestos for the built environment for upcoming same May day elections.
Advancing BIM education with a competency framework
“We don’t need people who can just draw in 3D. We need people who can think in data.”
























