Planning, Measurement and Control for Building

Planning, Measurement and Control for Building is an easy to read textbook that provides an overview of the process by which building projects are planned, priced and controlled.  Using three specific case studies (a speculative housing project, a small shop refit and a prestigious commercial development) the book illustrates the importance of the ‘paperwork’ side of the construction process, and shows how the various elements of design, estimating, tendering, and building contracts combine to deliver a successful project that meets the needs of clients and the appropriate regulations.

Planning, Measurement and Control for Building is a companion to Building in the 21st Century, providing an up-to-date and easy to read overview of the processes by which building projects are planned, their costs and materials estimated and the building work controlled – the 'paperwork side' of construction. Students on National Award, Certificate or Diploma courses in Construction will find this volume very useful as they study for the measurement, planning, building control and technology units of those courses.

With many colour photographs and diagrams, the book focuses on construction as a team effort and shows how various elements of design, estimating, tendering, and building contracts combine to enable these teams to work together to plan and organise construction projects that meet the needs of clients. The book covers a range of relevant topics in some detail, for example the basics of 'taking off' and the use of 'dim' paper, the building regulations and surveying processes.  Common terms and abbreviations are explained and put into context throughout the book. The coverage is completed by discussing three very different projects, including inception to topping out of a prestigious office development, illustrating how all of the technical aspects of design and legislation are put into place on real projects.

Robert Cooke is currently a lecturer at Barking College in the School of the Built Environment teaching construction students from GCSE through to BTEC/Edexcel Higher National Certificate. He has over 35 years experience in the construction industry in building trades, surveying, representitive and teaching roles.