CESMM4 Revised: Handbook

CESMM4 Revised: Handbook is an ICE guide to the financial control of contracts using the fourth edition of the Civil Engineering Standard Method of Measurement (CESMM4). The handbook has been completely revised and updated to bring it into line with the changes and new material contained within CESMM4. Updates include: an explanation of amendments that make CESMM4 contract-neutral, and explanations of how CESMM can be used with NEC, FIDIC and ICC contracts. The book also explains updates that brought CESMM4 into line with the latest technologies, and how CESMM4 can be used with various national standards. It also contains an extensive range of updated examples that clarify the use of each of the 26 classes of work.

The book will be an invaluable reference guide for anyone who needs to prepare Bills of Quantities for civil engineering works and competitive tenders using CESMM4. It is suitable for those with little background in this area and who are seeking an authoritative introduction to CESMM4, and it will also be a valuable resource for anyone familiar with the provisions of CESMM3 and who is looking to make the transition to CESMM4. 

Frequently asked questions about CESMM4 Revised are answered in Mike Attridge's article 10 Things you need to know about CESMM4. 

Mike Attridge is a Director of Trebes Consulting Ltd, who specialise in providing contractual and commercial advice to all sides of the construction industry. He has over 40 years’ experience in the preparation of Bills of Quantities using the CESMM.

Dr Martin Barnes was the principal creator of the original CESMM, and remained closely involved with the publication during the drafting of CESMM2 and CESMM3, both as a member of the CESMM Review Panel and as leader of the drafting team. He was the principal author of previous editions of the CESMM Handbook with assistance from various members of the Institution of Civil Engineers specialist committees.


Book Review

The real joy of the CESMM is that you really need to have and to develop a thorough understanding of how work is constructed to properly build the Bill of Quantities and to select all the necessary items. (...) CESMM4 is absolutely fitting with the current trends. Completely aligned with collaboration and trust and proper reimbursement of all parties who properly fulfil their obligations. This book is a thorough volume, and very important manual to support the proper use and understanding of the use of CESMM4. We need to be aware that many professionals in the construction industry will not have the advantage of experience of using bills of quantities, and this is a good book to educate both those who are familiar with the subject, what the recent developments are, and to introduce those as yet inexperienced in the subject to highlight the use and benefits of the approach. I found this book clear and informative and time spent reading this, was well spent in reminding myself of the real potential of this approach. 

Veronica Flint Williams, Environment Agency