Spot items
The term ‘spot items’ refers to items of existing buildings that require alteration and repair. In order for quantity surveyors to be able to price spot items, they need to be inspected on site to gain an understanding of the extent of work that will be involved.
A good working knowledge of the construction technology and methodology is required to be able to write spot items, making it easy to visualise and price accurately.
In a bill of quantities, the measurement unit will be stated as ‘Item’, although quantities may be given if they are considered more appropriate. Items that have quantities are generally much easier for an estimator to price. Typically, spot items will be set out in progression from location to location in the building, as this makes monitoring and estimating easier and clearer.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
A brief run down of changes intentions from April in an onwards.
Reslating an ancient water mill
A rare opportunity to record, study and repair early vernacular roofs.
CIOB Apprentice of the Year 2025/26
Construction apprentice from Lincoln Mia Owen wins this years title.
Insulation solutions with less waste for a circular economy
Rob Firman, Technical and Specification Manager, Polyfoam XPS explains.
Recycled waste plastic in construction
Hierarchy, prevention to disposal, plastic types and approaches.
UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard V1 published
Free-to-access technical standard to enable robust proof of a decarbonising built environment.
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
Why talking about prostate cancer matters in construction.
The Architectural Technology podcast: Where it's AT
Catch up for free, subscribe and share with your network.
The Association of Consultant Architects recap
A reintroduction and recap of ACA President; Patrick Inglis' Autumn update.
The Home Energy Model and its wrappers
From SAP to HEM, EPC for MEES and FHS assessment wrappers.
Future Homes Standard Essentials launched
Future Homes Hub launches new campaign to help sector prepare for the implementation of new building standards.
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.