Mock Flashcards
- Project Finance and Control (Level 3) - Can you talk me through how you controlled the project budget for a school extension from inception through to completion?
On our recent school extension project, I developed the initial budget based on benchmarked rates from previous similar schemes and BCIS data. I established a cost plan at RIBA Stage 2, allocating budgets to work packages. Throughout the project, I monitored commitments against forecast, updated cashflows monthly, and flagged any cost risk. When inflation impacts hit during procurement, I advised the client on reallocating contingency and value engineering options. I also prepared monthly financial reports for the council’s project board.
- Design Economics and Cost Planning (Level 3) - How did you contribute to the design economics of the school extension at Stage 2 or 3 of the RIBA Plan of Work?
-regular cost checks issued at key design freeze points.
- I used BCIS and internal council project cost data to validate assumptions.
- Contract Practice (Level 3) - You mentioned using JCT D&B and Intermediate — how did you advise your internal client on the best form of contract for the school project?
I assessed the complexity of the scheme, availability of design, and the client’s risk appetite. JCT D&B was recommended for a larger project as the contractor could manage design risk, whereas JCT Intermediate was used for simpler schemes with traditional design responsibility. I also considered familiarity with contract forms, insurance requirements, and programme implications.
- Construction Technology (Level 3) - Tell me about a technical construction issue that occurred on one of your projects and how you advised your client.
On the school extension, we encountered uncharted drainage near the new foundation line. I arranged a site investigation and liaised with the engineer to assess options. I advised the client on the cost and time impacts of rerouting versus redesigning the foundation. My recommendation balanced cost, risk, and disruption to the live school environment.
- Quantification and Costing (Level 3) - Explain how you prepared a quantified schedule or cost breakdown for the school extension project.
I used approximate quantities based on NRM1 at pre-tender stage to prepare a cost breakdown by elemental group. Post-tender, I validated contractor pricing using measured quantities for key trades like brickwork and concrete. For variations, I used contractor rates or market-tested rates, adjusting for preliminaries and risk allowances.
- Procurement and Tendering (Level 3) - How did you develop and advise on the procurement strategy for the school extension project?
I reviewed project timescales, market conditions, and design development stage. I recommended a single-stage tender using JCT D&B, enabling early cost certainty. I managed the PQQ and ITT process via the council’s procurement portal, ensuring compliance with PCR 2015. Tenders were evaluated 60/40 cost/quality, and I provided a full tender report and award recommendation to the project board.
Optional: Contract Administration (Level 2/3) - You’re not acting as CA, but how do you support the Contract Administrator during post-contract?
I support the CA by reviewing contractor applications, checking against site progress, and issuing payment recommendations. I also assist in reviewing delay notices and advising on EOT assessments based on programme analysis and critical path impact.
Optional: Corporate Recovery and Insolvency (Level 2/3) - Have you experienced contractor insolvency on any project? If so, what was your role?
Yes, contractor entered liquidation. I advised the client on the impact on contract termination and helped prepare a re-tender strategy.
Assessed Clients needs
Time
Cost
Quality
risks
Control
