Peter Kilby’s article mourning the death of the BoQ came as a surprise: I had no idea they were no longer seen to be a necessary part of the tendering process.

The BoQ evolved in the past century because builders combined to appoint one person (the QS) to produce one BoQ, on which they would all tender. QSs knew where the money was in a job, and were thus able to arrive at a fair settlement.

However, a large question is begged: where do QSs go now for the pricing information they need? May I suggest that the RICS, if it still recognises the QS, should instigate an inquiry into why there is decreasing enthusiasm for the BoQ and publicise its advantages to the building team and client?

Malcolm Taylor FRICS

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