An element unit quantity (EUQ) is a unit of measurement that relates solely to the quantity of the element or sub-element itself, for example the area of the external walls, the area of windows and external doors, or the number of internal doors.
EUQs are used in elemental cost planning under NRM 1 alongside element unit rates (EURs): multiplying the EUQ by an appropriate EUR gives the cost target for that element. Because the EUQ reflects the actual quantity of the element rather than the floor area of the building, it gives a more accurate picture than a simple cost per m² of GIFA, particularly where the design has an unusual shape, a high ratio of wall to floor area or a large amount of glazing.
- EUQs are usually measured from the design drawings at each formal cost plan stage.
- Where an element cannot sensibly be quantified on its own, the GIFA is commonly used as the unit instead.
Related terms: Element Unit Rate, Elemental Method, Gross Internal Floor Area.
