SMM7: Standard Method of Measurement of Building Works

Product Information

Exclusions : Internal partitions, suspended slabs, finishes etc. are to be included in the appropriate superstructure element. Lowest basement slabs to be included with ground floor slabs (see FNGF).

EE - Electrics ................................................................... 22 SB - Low Voltage (LV) Cubicle Switchboards Installation.. 25 In the world of construction, having a common language and standardized methods of measurement is essential for accurate cost estimation, effective contract administration, and successful project delivery. The UK construction industry relies heavily on the Standard Method of Measurement, 7th Edition (SMM7) for precisely these reasons. SMM7 is a widely recognized and embraced system that provides a comprehensive framework for quantifying and pricing construction work. This article will delve into what SMM7 is, why it is used, its history, and its key features, with a focus on the UK market. We will explore its tabular format, elemental sections, universal understanding, and the various units of measurement and quantities it employs. Definition : Includes for all works associated with kitchen ventilation and kitchen exhaust purification Part 1 – Places measurement for works procurement in context with the RIBA Plan of Work and explains the symbols, abbreviations and definitions used in the rules.Exclusions : Finishes to demountable partitions (see IP). Cornices (see IFCF). Integral skirtings (see IFFF). Finishes to balustrades and handrails (see IFBF). Definition : Includes for all works associated with the steam and condensate system including steam boilers, flue, calorifiers, water pumps, all pipework, fittings, insulation, valves and steam traps. The New Rules of Measurement 2 (NRM2) was published in April 2012 and became operative on January 1, 2013 replacing the Standard Method of Measurement seventh edition (SMM7) on July 1, 2013. Definition : Includes for all works associated with the supply of electrical power. Additionally those works involved with the provision of call bell system and lightning protection system. Definition : Includes for all works associated with gas extinguishing installation including gas cylinders,

Reference to the coordinated project information has also been omitted and the lettering previously used to indicate work sections (A to Y) has now been replaced with a numbering system (sections 1 to 41 complete with appendices). The primary development in recent years has been the publication of the International Cost Management Standard (ICMS) (formerly known as International Construction Measurement Standards). Together with the recent publication of the Cost prediction professional statement, there now exists a hierarchy of cost management standards and tools from the high-level and global ICMS, through the more detailed principles of all aspects of cost prediction in the professional statement, to the detailed rules and guidance in the NRM suite. Finally, NRM enhances cost estimating and cost planning capabilities. This leads to more accurate and reliable cost predictions, which are crucial for successfully completing construction projects. SMM7 and NRM in the Global Construction Industry Global Adoption and Impact of SMM7 and NRM Definition : Includes for all works associated with staircase pressurisation installation including ventilation Exclusions : Utility connections (see XWUC). Main riser to roof tanks (see SVFF). Fire stops in ceilings (see IFCF). Builder's work (see BB & BP).GROUP ELEMENT : 04 - MECHANICAL & ELECTRICAL SERVICES ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Element : AC - Air conditioning cont’d Definition : Includes for all works associated with mechanical ventilation installation including ventilation Definition : Includes for all works associated with the provision of fuel oil supply to heating water system

Definition : Includes for all works associated with the provision of electricity supply to the fire services installation including power cables, cabling facilities and starters. Despite its widespread use and benefits, SMM7 has faced criticism over time. Critics have argued that SMM7 was outdated and did not adequately reflect the modern construction industry’s methods and practices. This led to the proposal for a new set of measurement rules, known as the New Rules of Measurement (NRM). To reflect this a completely new suite of documents was created – The New Rules of Measurement or NRM than one system including the installation of trunkings, ducts, trays, cable ladders, conduits and outlet boxes.A.R. Abdul Aziz, N. Ali, Outsourcing and quality performance: malaysia’s public works department. Struct. Surv. 22(1), 53–60 (2004)

The NRM replaces Standard Method of Measurement which was first published by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) in 1922 with it seventh edition being published in 1988 and revised in 1998. Many believe that SMM7 was outdated and it was proposed that a new set of measurement rules should be adopted to reflect the way in which the industry now works. In essence, the contents of SMM7 serve as a comprehensive guide for measuring building works. Its guidelines and procedures provide a solid foundation for the preparation of bills of quantities and cost estimates, promoting accuracy and efficiency in the construction industry. SMM7 in Practice Application and Benefits of SMM7 Definition : Includes for all works associated with the heating water system including hot water boilers, K. Abd Rashid, In Need of Studies to Assess the Effectiveness of Bills of Quantities, in 10th Management in Construction Research ( MiCRA) Conference (2011)Definition : Includes for all works associated with control system of the fire service installation including Definition : Includes for all works associated with specialist medical gases, steam/hot water boiler installations and the like.