FIDIC / Legal Reference: FIDIC Red Book Clause 12 — Measurement and Evaluation
A document listing all the items of work to be carried out under the contract, with estimated quantities and unit rates provided by the contractor at tender. The BOQ forms the basis for interim payment valuations and final account settlement in measurement contracts.
What it means in practice
In a remeasurement contract (the standard FIDIC Red Book approach), the BOQ quantities are estimates only — the actual quantities executed are measured and valued at the BOQ rates. This means the final contract sum can be higher or lower than the Accepted Contract Amount.
Under Clause 12.3, if the quantity of any item differs from the BOQ estimate by more than 10%, either party may require a new rate to be agreed. This provision is frequently overlooked by contractors who accept the original rate without challenging.
Where disputes arise
BOQ disputes arise from: errors in the original quantities, disagreement about how to measure and value Variations, disputes over whether work falls within existing BOQ items or requires new rates.
UAE Context
In UAE construction, the use of BOQs varies by contract type and employer. Government projects typically use detailed BOQs under standard measurement methods. Private sector projects may use lump sum contracts with schedules of rates.
Related terms
BOQ disputes and final account preparation require specialist quantity surveying and claims expertise. e-Basel provides quantification, BOQ review, and expert witness services.
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