In the table below, we present a detailed breakdown of functional units of measurement used across various sectors, adhering to the RICS – NRM 1 standards commonly utilized in Australia. These standardized measurements are essential for benchmarking, ensuring consistency and comparability across different projects and stages of construction.
Standardization is crucial in maintaining not only internal consistency within projects but also in ensuring compliance with established industry standards. By adhering to RICS – NRM 1, quantity surveyors and construction professionals can ensure that their work aligns with the best practices and benchmarks that govern the industry. This alignment helps in accurate cost estimation, project planning, and effective management, facilitating a smooth and standardized approach across the board.
This guide is an invaluable tool for professionals seeking to uphold the highest standards of accuracy and consistency in construction and real estate projects. If you require further details or specific adaptations for specialized applications, please feel free to reach out for more tailored information.
| Function | Functional Unit of Measurement |
| Car Parking | |
| Car parking | per car parking space |
| Administrative Facilities | |
| Offices | per m2 of NIA (Net Internal Area) |
| Commercial Facilities | |
| Shops | per m2 of retail area (m2) |
| Department stores | per m2 of retail area (m2) |
| Shopping centres | per m2 of retail area (m2) |
| Retail warehouses | per m2 of retail area (m2) |
| Industrial Facilities | |
| Factories | per m2 of NIA |
| Warehouses/stores | per m2 of NIA |
| Livestock buildings – farms (pig pens, milking parlour, etc.) | per animal |
| Residential Facilities | |
| Houses (private developer and affordable) | per house type (based on number of bedrooms) |
| Bungalows (private developer and affordable) | per bedroom |
| Apartments/flats (private developer and affordable) | per apartment/flat type (based on number of bedrooms) |
| Hotels/motels | per bedroom |
| Hotel furniture, fittings and equipment | per bedroom |
| Student accommodation | per bedroom |
| Youth hostels | per bedroom |
| Religious | |
| Churches, chapels, temples, mosques, etc. | per pew or per seat |
| Education, Scientific and Information Facilities | |
| Schools | per child or per student |
| Universities, colleges, etc. | per student |
| Conference centres | number of places |
| Health and Welfare Facilities | |
| Hospitals | per bed space |
| Nursing homes | per bed space |
| Doctors’ surgeries | per doctor consulting room |
| Dentists’ surgeries | per dentist workspace |
| Protective Facilities | |
| Fire stations | per fire tender space |
| Ambulance stations | per ambulance vehicle space |
| Law courts | per courtroom |
| Prisons | per cell |
| Recreational Facilities | |
| Theatre | per seat |
| Cinemas | per seat or per screen |
| Concert halls | per seat |
| Restaurants | per seat |
| Squash courts, tennis courts, etc. | per court |
| Football stadia | per seat |
* NIA (Net Internal Area)
* Reference: https://www.rics.org
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