Measurement

Question 1

What are the IPMS standards and what are they used for?

Answer 1

• IPMS 1: GEA, for planning or building cost purposes
• IPMS 2: GIA, agency or valuation purposes
• IPMS 3: NIA, also for agency or valuation purposes
• Note: balconies, terrace etc. measured but noted separately under IPMS

Question 2

What are the key differences between the RICS Code of Measuring Practice (2015) and IPMS3?

Answer 2

• NIA does not include columns
• NIA has exclusions for restricted height of less than 1.5m
• NIA are not taken to the dominant face (i.e window panes), rather main wall internal

Question 3

What are some measuring tools?

Answer 3

Distometer, tape, measuring rod, trundle wheel (for land)

Question 4

How does IPMS address accuracy?

Answer 4

IPMS refers to measurements having to state the degree of tolerance reported as percentage (3-5% typically accepted), and that all measurements are supported with computer-generated drawings (verified on-site)

Question 5

What are some of the IPMS recent updates?

Answer 5

IPMS All Buildings was introduced in January 2023 and now supersedes all previous versions irrespective of their use class. Key updates include:
- A shorter more concise format
- Definitions have been made deliberately unique to avoid confusion
- IPMS has been organised into 4 volumes that can be utilized by different professional groups