Do You Provide a Detailed BOQ and Specifications?
- Gabriel Mikael
- 20 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Yes—any serious build should come with a detailed BOQ (Bill of Quantities) and written specifications. That’s the only way you can compare quotes fairly, control your budget, and avoid “assumed” items that become surprise charges later.
A detailed BOQ lists the materials, quantities, and scope of work per trade. Specifications define the exact quality level (brands, thickness, mix ratios, installation standards, allowances).Together, they make the quote transparent and enforceable.
What a “Detailed BOQ” Should Include (Non-Negotiable Sections)
1) Preliminaries
Mobilization, supervision, safety, temporary facilities
Construction schedule + deliverables
2) Siteworks
Excavation, backfill, compaction
Hauling allowance (truckloads or m³)
Drainage scope, termite treatment (if included)
3) Structural Works
Concrete works (footings/columns/beams/slab)
Rebar sizes and estimated quantities
Formworks and scaffolding scope
4) Walls + Plastering
Wall system type (CHB/AAC/panel) and thickness
Plastering/rendering scope and finish level
5) Roofing
Roof framing type and thickness
Roof sheets brand/profile, insulation (if any)
Gutters/downspouts scope
6) Architectural Finishes
Floor finish per area (tile size/type/allowance)
Ceiling type and design (flat/drop/cove)
Paint system (primer/topcoat brand + coats)
Doors/windows specs (frame type, glass thickness, screens, hardware)
7) Plumbing & Sanitary
Pipe type (PPR/uPVC), sizes, and layout scope
Waterproofing locations (T&B, balconies)
Fixture list with allowance/spec
8) Electrical
Wire type/brand and sizes
Panelboard capacity, breakers
Number of outlets/switches/lighting points
Grounding details, meter base scope (if included)
9) Turnover & Warranty
Punchlist process
Testing/commissioning
Warranty coverage and after-sales
What “Specifications” Must Clearly State
A BOQ without specs is still risky. Your specs should define:
Materials: brand/model, grade, thickness (not “standard”)
Installation method: waterproofing system, tile adhesive, curing
Allowances: exact ₱ cap per item (tiles, fixtures, lighting)
Finish level: Basic vs Standard vs Premium definitions
Exclusions: clearly written to avoid disputes
If specs are vague, expect variation orders.
Why BOQ + Specs Protect You (Real Benefits)
Prevents hidden exclusions
Makes quotes comparable (apples-to-apples)
Controls upgrades and allowance overruns
Reduces rework and change orders
Protects both owner and contractor legally
Red Flags (Meaning BOQ is NOT truly detailed)
“Lump sum” only with no breakdown
No quantities, no unit costs, no scope per area
“Tiles included” without tile size/allowance
“Electrical included” without point count and wire sizes
Siteworks included without hauling allowance
What to Ask Your Builder (Copy-Paste)
Can I see the BOQ per trade with quantities and scope?
Can you provide a specification sheet (brands/standards/allowances)?
Are siteworks, permits, and utilities included? If not, what’s excluded?
How do you handle allowance overruns and variation orders?
Can you attach BOQ + specs as part of the contract?
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