Construction Contracts and Estimates

Types of Contracts

  • Lump Sum
  • Item Rate
  • Percentage Rate
  • Cost Plus Percentage Rate
  • Cost Plus Fixed Fee
  • Target
  • All-in-One
  • Labor
  • Cost Plus Fluctuating

Types of Approximate Estimates

  • Service Unit
  • Plinth Area
  • Cube Rate
  • Carpet Area
  • Approximate Quantity Method

Types of Detailed Estimates

  • Original/Fresh
  • Revised
  • Supplementary
  • Special Repair
  • Annual Repair/Maintenance

Measurement Sheet

Sr.Particular of ItemNos.LengthBreadthHeightQty.Remark
Abstract Sheet (Rate Analysis)
Sr.ParticularQtyUnitRateAmountRemark

Rules of Measurement Writing

  1. Before taking measurements, the engineer should understand the contract conditions and specifications.
  2. Measurements should be taken accurately with a metal tape. Material specifications should be recorded with the measurements.
  3. All measurements should be recorded in ink. Corrections should be signed and dated.
  4. The measurement book is an authentic record and can be used as evidence.
  5. Measurements should be numbered serially.
  6. The engineer should sign the measurement book after every entry.

Contracts

Work estimated to cost more than a certain amount is prepared on a regular contract form. Tenders are invited, and the lowest tender is usually accepted. The work awarded to the selected tenderer is called a contract. Examples: Lump Sum, Percentage Rate, Item Rate.

Dry Volumes

  • P.C.C: 15.2 cum
  • R.C.C: 4.125 cum
  • U.C.R: 4.2 cum
  • C.R: 4 cum
  • Ashlar: 2.5 cum
  • Brick: 3 cum
  • Cement Plaster (12mm): 2 cum
  • Cement Plaster (20mm): 3 cum
  • Cement Pointing: 0.6 cum

Methods of Carrying Out the Contract

Pre-Tender Actions: Preparation of Contract Documents

  1. Layout Plan Preparation
  2. Plan, Elevation, and Working Drawings
  3. Schedule A: Materials Supplied by the Department
  4. Schedule B: Bill of Quantities
  5. Specifications
  6. Conditions of Contract
  7. List of Equipment and Rates
  8. Tender Notice and Types of Contract

Publication of Tender Notice

After obtaining administrative and technical sanctions, and budgetary provisions, the tender notice is published in daily newspapers.

Post-Tender Actions

Opening the Tender

The tender notice specifies the time, place, cost of the tender form and documents, and the date and time of the tender opening. Tenders are opened by the Executive Engineer or a representative in the presence of contractors.

Selecting the Tender

Generally, the lowest tenderer is selected. A list of all tenders is prepared. The earnest money amount is noted. The tenderer’s signature is required. Verification ensures rates are provided in figures and words, and all contract conditions are signed.

Tender Notice

Sealed tenders are invited on behalf of… [Details of work, estimated cost, earnest money, security deposit, tender form cost, completion period, tender availability, submission process, opening process, and rejection rights].

Payment Methods

Bills are prepared by recording measurements taken by subordinates and checked by the Executive Engineer, who also checks the quality of work. Types of bills: First and Final, Interim/Running, and Final.

First and Final Bill

Used for small, short-duration works, the entire tender sum is paid in one installment.

Interim/Running Bill

Also known as a running account bill. Payments are made based on recorded measurements and tender rates. A separate running account is maintained for each contract.

Final Bill

Prepared upon work completion, this bill, typically on a yellow form, represents the full and final settlement.

Labor Welfare Act

The Labor Welfare Fund is a statutory contribution managed by individual state authorities. It provides financial or essential aid to those in need, offering social security and raising living standards.