Explain the following terms used in bills of quantity: preamble, contingency sum,prime cost sum ,query sheet??

1. Preamble: The preamble in a bill of quantities is an introductory section that provides important information about the project, such as the name of the project, the location, the client, the architect, the contractor, and the date of the document. It may also include a brief description of the work to be carried out, the scope of the project, and any special conditions or requirements.

2. Contingency sum: A contingency sum in a bill of quantities is an amount of money set aside to cover unforeseen or unexpected costs that may arise during the course of the project. It is typically expressed as a percentage of the total project cost and is included to provide a buffer against potential cost overruns.

3. Prime cost sum: A prime cost sum in a bill of quantities is a specific amount of money allocated for the purchase of materials, products, or services that have not yet been selected or specified. It is used to estimate the cost of items that are subject to change or negotiation, such as fixtures, fittings, or finishes. The prime cost sum is typically based on the best available information at the time of preparing the bill of quantities and may be adjusted as the project progresses.

4. Query sheet: A query sheet in a bill of quantities is a document used to record and address any questions, clarifications, or discrepancies that arise during the tendering process. Contractors or suppliers may submit queries to the client or the project team regarding the bill of quantities, and their responses are typically documented on the query sheet to ensure that all parties have a clear understanding of the scope of work and the pricing requirements.

Preamble

- Introductory section of a bill of quantity that provides general information about the project, such as:
- Project title and location
- Client and contractor details
- Contract date and conditions
- General specifications and assumptions
- Payment terms

Contingency Sum

- A sum of money set aside in a bill of quantity to cover unforeseen expenses or changes that may arise during construction.
- It is typically used for items that are difficult to accurately estimate, such as:
- Variations in ground conditions
- Unexpected delays
- New materials or design changes

Prime Cost Sum

- A sum of money in a bill of quantity that represents the cost of materials and labor that will be supplied or performed by subcontractors or suppliers.
- It is based on the contractor's negotiated or estimated costs for these elements.
- Prime cost sums may include items such as:
- Mechanical equipment
- Electrical fixtures
- Specialist subcontract works

Query Sheet

- A document attached to a bill of quantity that allows the contractor to make inquiries or raise clarifications with the project team.
- It is used to:
- Request additional information
- Highlight potential errors or omissions
- Suggest alternative solutions
- Negotiate changes or variations to the bill of quantity