Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Over the past decade, the relationship between bill of quantities preparation practices and construction cost overrun has become a subject of considerable debate among scholars and industry practitioners alike, particularly within the context of Edo State where operating conditions differ markedly from more developed markets.

Within the context of Edo State, this relationship carries particular significance. Organizations in this setting operate under a distinct combination of economic, regulatory, and market conditions that may amplify or dampen the effect of bill of quantities preparation practices on construction cost overrun, making a context-specific inquiry both timely and necessary.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite a growing body of literature on bill of quantities preparation practices, there remains limited consensus on the precise nature of its relationship with construction cost overrun, particularly within Edo State. Many organizations continue to make decisions about bill of quantities preparation practices without a clear, evidence-based understanding of how those decisions ultimately affect construction cost overrun. This gap between practice and empirical understanding is the central problem this study seeks to address.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To examine the effect of Bill of Quantities Preparation Practices on construction cost overrun in Edo State.
2. To assess the extent to which bill of quantities preparation practices influences construction cost overrun within the study area.
3. To identify the challenges associated with bill of quantities preparation practices in relation to construction cost overrun.
4. To recommend strategies for optimizing bill of quantities preparation practices in order to improve construction cost overrun.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the effect of bill of quantities preparation practices on construction cost overrun in Edo State?
2. To what extent does bill of quantities preparation practices influence construction cost overrun within the study area?
3. What challenges are associated with bill of quantities preparation practices in relation to construction cost overrun?
4. What strategies can be adopted to optimize bill of quantities preparation practices in order to improve construction cost overrun?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant to a range of stakeholders. For policymakers and regulators, the findings offer evidence to guide the design of frameworks that support healthier outcomes around construction cost overrun. For managers and practitioners within Edo State, the study provides practical insight into how bill of quantities preparation practices can be better managed. Finally, it contributes to the academic literature on quantity surveying by extending existing knowledge into a specific empirical context, and offers a reference point for future researchers.

1.6 Scope of the Study

In terms of scope, this study confines itself to Edo State, focusing specifically on how bill of quantities preparation practices relates to construction cost overrun within that setting. Findings are interpreted within these boundaries rather than as universal claims applicable to every organization or market.