Sub-element
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 ‘element’ refers to:
'...a major part of a group element (e.g. the elements that create group element 3: Internal finishes are 3.1:Wall finishes, 3.2: Floor finishes, and 3.3: Ceiling finishes). A separate cost target can be established for each element.'
Where, 'group element' means:
'...the main headings used to describe the facets of an elemental cost plan (i.e. Substructure; Superstructure; Internal finishes; Fittings, furnishings and equipment; Services; Complete buildings and building units;Work to existing buildings; External works; Facilitating works; Main contractor’s preliminaries; Main contractor’s overheads and profit; Project/design team fees; Other development/project costs; Risks; and Inflation).'
And a ‘sub element’ is:
‘…a part of an element. As with elements, a separate cost target can be established for each sub-element (e.g. the sub-elements that comprise element 2: Superstructure are 2.1 Frame; 2.2: Upper floors; 2.3: Roof; 2.4: Stairs and ramps; 2.5: External walls; 2.6:Windows and external doors; 2.7: Internal walls and partitions; and 2.8: Internal doors.’
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