Building works estimate
The New Rules of Measurement (NRM) are published by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). They provide a standard set of measurement rules for estimating, cost planning, procurement and whole-life costing for construction projects.
According to NRM1: Order of cost estimating and cost planning for capital building work, the term ‘building works estimate’ means:
'… the sum of the cost targets for group elements 1 to 8 (i.e. Substructure; Superstructure; Internal finishes; Fittings, furnishings and equipment; Services; Prefabricated buildings and building units; Work to existing buildings; and External works). It excludes facilitating works estimate, as well as those relating to main contractor’s preliminaries, main contractor’s overheads, profit/design team fees estimate, other development/project costs estimate and risk allowances.’
That is, it is the total estimated cost of building works.
The elemental method offers an alternative approach for calculating the building works estimate. The elemental method:
‘…is a budget setting technique which considers the major elements of a building and provides an order of cost estimate based on an elemental breakdown of a building project.'
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Ending decades of frustration, misinformation and distrust.
Essential tools in managing historically significant landscapes.
Classroom electrician courses a 'waste of money'
Say experts from the Electrical Contractors’ Association.
Wellbeing in Buildings TG 10/2025
BSRIA topic guide updates.
With brief background and WELL v2™.
From studies, to books to a new project, with founder Emma Walshaw.
Types of drawings for building design
Still one of the most popular articles the A-Z of drawings.
Who, or What Does the Building Safety Act Apply To?
From compliance to competence in brief.
The remarkable story of a Highland architect.
Commissioning Responsibilities Framework BG 88/2025
BSRIA guidance on establishing clear roles and responsibilities for commissioning tasks.
An architectural movement to love or hate.
Don’t take British stone for granted
It won’t survive on supplying the heritage sector alone.
The Constructing Excellence Value Toolkit
Driving value-based decision making in construction.
Meet CIOB event in Northern Ireland
Inspiring the next generation of construction talent.
Reasons for using MVHR systems
6 reasons for a whole-house approach to ventilation.