What is an Ausmass? Construction measurement in Switzerland
Construction measurement explained simply
A quote contains planned or tendered quantities. The construction measurement shows the quantity that was actually executed. It thus connects the work on the construction site with the corresponding item and the subsequent billing. In Germany and Austria, the term "Aufmass" is commonly used, while in Switzerland, "Ausmass" is generally preferred.
A construction measurement consists of more than just a number. The derivation must be documented in a way that allows for verification: for example, length times height, number of components, marked plan area, or individual detailed quantities.
What makes a construction measurement verifiable?
- Project and relevant phase or component
- Reference to the corresponding item in the bill of quantities
- Date or measurement period
- Partial and detailed quantities with calculation methods
- Unit of the item
- Plan references, sketches, photos, or measurement sheets
- Deductions, surcharges, and applied measurement rules
- Review status or comments from stakeholders
Example
The bill of quantities specifies 520 m² for a facade area. After completion, four sub-areas of 142, 168, 96, and 121 m² are determined. Openings and contractually defined deductions are documented separately. The verified total is 511 m². Instead of just entering the final figure, sub-quantities and plan references are retained.
Measurement and time-and-material report
The measurement determines quantities for existing service items. A time-and-material report documents expenses billed based on time, materials, and other resources. A project may require both foundations: executed contract items via measurement, and additional work via time-and-material or change orders.
What happens in the event of changes to quantities or services?
A quantity deviation is not automatically the same thing as a new service. If the work belongs to an existing item, the effective quantity is recorded in the measurement. If an additional or modified service is necessary, a supplementary quote or time-and-material documentation may be required. The correct approach depends on the contract, the item, and the specific situation.
Typical mistakes
- Only a total is recorded without sub-quantities or calculation methods.
- Measurements are not assigned to a clear item.
- Plan version, phase, or date are missing.
- Different units are being mixed.
- Changes are only reconstructed at the end of the project.
Digital measurement
Digitally recorded quantities can be managed directly with the quote item, totaled, and later used for billing. This eliminates the need for repetitive transfers between plans, spreadsheets, and invoices. With Caturix Quotes , the bill of quantities, items, measurements, and the project remain connected.
Frequently asked questions about measurement
When is the measurement created?
Ideally, it should be done continuously after measurable milestones rather than just at the end of the project. Work that is concealed or will no longer be accessible later should be documented in a timely manner.
Can measurements be determined from plans?
Depending on the agreed-upon method, plan quantities can be used. The crucial factor is that the plan version, derivation, and any deviations from the actual execution remain traceable.
Who checks the measurement?
Recording is often carried out by the executing company; the verification process depends on the project organization and contract. Unclear quantities should be resolved together at an early stage.