The compilation methods of building price indices in Britain: a critical review

The major message that I will be trying to convey is that we often misinterpret the available data because of inadequate attention to how they are produced … (Griliches, 1994, p. 2) The importance of accurate measurement and pertinent modelling of the general level of construction prices cannot be overemphasized. Uses range from macroeconomic statistics such as real value of investment to micro-level budgeting like construction project price forecasts. Numerous research studies posit that the measured productivity growth rates of the construction sector are distorted and that an inaccurate general construction price index is a main villain of the piece. The academic research published in this arena has primarily focused on models to forecast or predict changes in the general construction price level, whereas this research scrutinizes the compilation methods of the general construction price index in Britain and finds that the indices measure the price movement of more traditional building trades but almost completely ignore the mechanical and electrical services. The existing indices also do not gauge the tender price movements of new building work that is not procured through the conventional lump sum BQs route, such as many projects in private housing and PFI markets. These make out a case for allowing resources to the project of developing alternative methodologies: (1) a revised version of the present method; and (2) hedonic price index.