We’re excited to announce a powerful new feature coming to our platform: the Bill of Quantity in construction estimating software. This update is set to transform how construction professionals approach cost estimation by providing a deeper, more structured view into every project component. With the Bill of Quantity (BoQ), contractors and estimators will be able to break down expenses with greater precision, ensuring that no material, labour cost, or hidden fee slips through the cracks. The result is a smarter, more transparent estimating process that saves both time and money.
As the construction industry continues to evolve and face increasing complexity, the need for tools that offer clarity and control has never been greater. Traditional estimating methods often fall short when it comes to detailed cost analysis. That’s where the BoQ steps in. This feature addresses the core challenge of cost tracking by offering a reliable, comprehensive method for capturing all resource data within one system—materials, labour, plant, and miscellaneous costs, all interconnected and dynamically updated.
Bill of Quantity Overview
What Is the Bill of Quantity in Construction Estimating Software?
The Bill of Quantity in construction estimating software refers to a comprehensive breakdown of all the resources required for a construction project. It provides precision in cost analysis—ensuring that materials, labour, plant & equipment, and additional expenses are thoroughly accounted for.
Instead of relying on vague approximations, the BoQ ensures that every component is calculated clearly, giving contractors a more reliable foundation for generating quotes and making financial decisions.
A comprehensive Bill of Quantity detailing preliminary tasks, labour, materials, and costs for effective construction project estimation.
How the Bill of Quantity Enhances Estimating Calculations
Estimating a project starts with defining phases such as demolition, foundations, or finishing work. The Bill of Quantity in construction estimating software builds upon these phases by detailing every resource involved in each task.
Examples of the breakdown include:
- Materials – Includes specific items (e.g., bricks, insulation) with unit prices and totals.
- Labour – Captures hours, rates, and total workforce costs.
- Plant & Equipment – Covers rentals or machinery usage.
- Other Costs – Encompasses transport, prep, or miscellaneous fees.
This resource-level detail is tightly integrated with your estimating calculations—so whenever prices or quantities change, the BoQ updates automatically. No more manual adjustments or spreadsheet headaches.
Resource list showcasing various building materials with associated costs, categorized for use in calculation software.
Flexible Views for Smarter Cost Management
One of the key advantages of using the Bill of Quantity in construction estimating software is its flexible display options:
- Detailed View – Shows every task and associated cost, ideal for internal reviews.
- Summary View – Groups costs for a high-level overview, perfect for client or stakeholder presentations.
These adaptable views allow you to manage estimates more confidently and communicate them clearly with others.
Flexible view options in the Bill of Quantity for better cost management, including total, phase, sheets, area, and details.
Automated Updates, Reduced Errors
Since the BoQ is integrated directly into the software’s estimating engine, updates to resource data—like unit prices or labour rates—automatically adjust the Bill of Quantity. This ensures that your cost estimates are always current and accurate, reducing the risk of errors or outdated figures.
With these enhancements, your project planning becomes faster, smarter, and more responsive to changes.
Try BuilderExpert and Get Ready for the BoQ Upgrade
With all these advantages, the Bill of Quantity in construction estimating software is more than just a feature—it’s a leap forward in how construction projects are estimated, budgeted, and managed. By combining precision, automation, and flexibility, BoQ gives professionals the tools they need to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market.
Now’s the perfect time to get familiar with our platform. While the Bill of Quantity (BoQ) feature is coming soon, you can already benefit from other industry-leading tools included in both our Free Plan and Premium Plan. To see which features come with each, check our detailed comparison of Free vs Paid plans and choose the best option for your estimating needs.
👉 Register for a free account today and be among the first to experience the next evolution in construction cost management.
