A group element is one of the main headings used to structure an elemental cost plan. Each group element is broken down into elements, sub-elements and components.
Under NRM 1 the group elements are numbered, starting with group element 0: Facilitating works. Group elements 1 to 8 cover the building and external works: substructure; superstructure; internal finishes; fittings, furnishings and equipment; services; prefabricated buildings and building units; work to existing buildings; and external works. The later group elements cover main contractor’s preliminaries, main contractor’s overheads and profit, project and design team fees, other development and project costs, risks and inflation.
Using a standard set of group elements allows costs to be compared between projects and design stages, and makes it easier to see where cost has moved between one cost plan and the next.
Related terms: Element, Sub-element, Elemental Cost Plan, NRM 1.
