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
Call for greater recognition of professional standards
Chartered bodies representing more than 1.5 million individuals have written to the UK Government.
Cutting carbon, cost and risk in estate management
Lessons from Cardiff Met’s “Halve the Half” initiative.
Inspiring the next generation to fulfil an electrified future
Technical Manager at ECA on the importance of engagement between industry and education.
Repairing historic stone and slate roofs
The need for a code of practice and technical advice note.
Environmental compliance; a checklist for 2026
Legislative changes, policy shifts, phased rollouts, and compliance updates to be aware of.
UKCW London to tackle sector’s most pressing issues
AI and skills development, ecology and the environment, policy and planning and more.
Managing building safety risks
Across an existing residential portfolio; a client's perspective.
ECA support for Gate Safe’s Safe School Gates Campaign.
Core construction skills explained
Preparing for a career in construction.
Retrofitting for resilience with the Leicester Resilience Hub
Community-serving facilities, enhanced as support and essential services for climate-related disruptions.
Some of the articles relating to water, here to browse. Any missing?
Recognisable Gothic characters, designed to dramatically spout water away from buildings.
A case study and a warning to would-be developers
Creating four dwellings... 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.