In building measurements (quantity surveying), what is the conventional order of booking dimensions for items such as masonry, concrete, and plaster?

Introduction / Context:A uniform convention for recording dimensions avoids confusion and errors in quantity take-off and billing. Quantity surveyors typically follow a fixed order throughout drawings, abstracts, and bills to ensure clarity and comparability.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are concerned with standard building items where three dimensions describe the work.
• Conventional practice is sought, not a one-off project-specific convention.

Concept / Approach:The widely adopted rule is to book dimensions as Length first (the larger horizontal extent or along the run), Breadth (width or thickness), and Height (or depth/vertical dimension) last. This LBH order is applied to masonry, concrete, plastering, and many other trades, with special cases noted in standard measurement rules.

Step-by-Step Solution:Identify the principal run of the item — record as Length.Record the secondary horizontal dimension — as Breadth (or thickness, as applicable).Record the vertical dimension — as Height or depth.Thus the order is Length, Breadth, Height.

Verification / Alternative check:Most SORs and standard method of measurement (SMM) texts explicitly specify LBH to standardize entries and calculations.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Any permutation other than LBH departs from convention and can cause misinterpretation or rework.

Common Pitfalls:Mixing thickness with breadth inconsistently; switching order between items; failing to note special measurement rules (e.g., deductions and openings).

Final Answer:Length, breadth, height