Budget Blowout Prevention (BOQ + Scope + Milestones)

Budget Build Rule: If It’s Not Written, It Will Cost You Later

 Most “overbudget” builds aren’t caused by bad luck. They’re caused by unclear scope. If scope is fuzzy, cost becomes elastic.

Do this first: lock floor area. Don’t “add a meter” repeatedly. That’s how budgets die slowly.

Next: demand a BOQ by phase. Even a basic BOQ forces clarity: foundation, structure, roof, walls, MEP, finishes, external works.

Then: confirm inclusions/exclusions in writing. This is where surprise costs hide: hauling, temporary power/water, septic, permits, gate, landscaping.

Now the real weapon: a written variation order process. No verbal changes. Every change must show: added cost + added days before approval.

Finally: pay by milestones, not dates. Your payment schedule should match completed work. If work isn’t complete, payment doesn’t move. This single rule keeps projects honest and predictable.

 Want a BOQ-style checklist you can use even if you’re not an engineer?

DM ‘BOQ’ for the printable checklist.

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Budget Blowout Prevention (BOQ + Scope + Milestones)