What is a BOQ in interior design, and why ask for one?
A bill of quantities, or BOQ, is an itemised list of the work and materials in an interior project. For each item it shows what it is, how much of it there is, the rate, and the total. It is the clearest way to see what you are paying for.
By Noyae. Published .
Why a BOQ matters
- You can compare quotes like for like. A lump sum hides what is and is not included. An itemised list shows it.
- Scope is explicit. If an item is not on the list, it is not in the price, so there are fewer surprises later.
- Changes can be priced against the same list, which keeps the conversation about extra work factual.
What a good BOQ contains
- Items grouped by room or area, such as kitchen, master bedroom and living room.
- A clear description of each item, with the finish or material named.
- The unit, the quantity, the rate and the line total.
- A statement of what is excluded, for example appliances and loose furniture.
When to ask for it
Ask after the drawings and scope are agreed, and before you sign the agreement or pay a deposit. A BOQ prepared from agreed drawings is far more reliable than a figure given at the first meeting. Budgets discussed earlier are only indicative until that BOQ is agreed.
Questions to ask any designer
- Is the quote itemised, or a lump sum?
- Which finishes and hardware are named in it?
- How are changes to the scope priced and agreed?
- What is excluded from the price?
At Noyae we prepare an itemised BOQ from the agreed drawings and scope, so you see every item, quantity and rate before you commit.