Working up construction works
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
Working up (or creating a workup) refers to the process of collating the details of the measured elements of construction works before prices have been determined. This information is then used to produce an unpriced bill of quantities (BoQ).
An unpriced bill of quantities (BoQ) is essentially an estimate in the form of a template. It breaks down the work required on a project into tasks but has no measured quantity (or price) by each task. For more information see: Unpriced bill of quantities.
[edit] Taking off
Before working up takes place, elements are identified through the taking off process. The term taking off refers to the process of identifying elements of construction works that can be measured and priced. This is necessary to produce bills of quantities and requires that the design is complete and a specification has been prepared.
Analysis of drawings and specifications allows the cost consultant (usually a quantity surveyor) to prepare a taking off list, which lists all of the individual elements that comprise the works.
For more information see: Taking off.
[edit] Workup sheets
The process of taking off includes calculating measurements of the components by number, length, area, volume, weight or time. All items must be accounted for through the take off process. This information is then entered on workup sheets.
Quantities from workup sheets are generally grouped based on work category. This information is then transferred to a summary sheet for pricing.
[edit] Workup and property purchasing
In the United States, the term workup can also be used to describe an estimate created for a prospective purchaser of a building lot, including the plan and options. In this instance, the workup takes place before the purchase agreement is signed.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
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.”