Glossary

A/C

An abbreviation for air conditioner or air conditioning.

A/C Condenser

The outside fan unit of the air conditioning system. It removes the heat from the Freon gas and “turns” the gas back into a liquid, pumping the liquid back to the coil.

Access and Mobility AS 1428.1

This is an Australian Standard in place to ensure all areas that are accessible to disabled people are constructed in such a way that they are “Disabled friendly”.

Activity Based Working (ABW)

ABW provides employess with a choice of workplace settings dependant on their activity.

Aerator

Round screened screw-on tip of a sink spout – mixes water and air for a smooth flow.

Aggregate

Sharp clean stone that is mixed with sand and cement. A major component of concrete.

Allowance(s)

(sometimes referred to as a PC Sum) (an abbreviation for Provisional Cost Sum or Prime Cost Sum)
Sum of money set aside in the construction contract for items which have not been selected and specified in the construction contract. For example, selection of tile as flooring may require an allowance for screed bed material, or an electrical allowance which sets aside an amount of money to be spent on electrical fixtures. Sometimes a PC Sum needs to be allowed when it is not possible to obtain an accurate quote due to insufficient information In this case work is costed based on an ‘educated guess’ with any shortfall or over-spending made up via a Variation or credit.

Anchor Bolts

Bolts to secure an item to concrete or masonry floor or wall.

AS

Abbreviation for Australian Standards

Astragal

Moulding, attached to one of a pair of swinging double doors, against which the other door strikes

Authority Approvals

Approval for works to proceed legally by any necessary authority i.e. local council, private certifiers or any other person in authority required to do so if the nature of the works means approval is required.Flexible material used to seal a gap between two surfaces.

Back Charge

Billings for work performed or costs incurred by one party that, in accordance with the agreement, should have been performed or incurred by the party billed. Owners bill back charges to general contractors, and general contractor’s bill back charges to subcontractors. Examples of back charges include charges for cleanup work or to repair damage incurred by another subcontractor, e.g. a basin that has been chipped or broken window.

Backfill

Replacement of excavated earth into a trench around or against a basement /crawl space foundation wall.

Ballast

Transformer that steps up the voltage in a florescent lamp.

Balusters

Vertical members in a railing used between a top rail and bottom rail or the stair treads. Sometimes referred to as ‘pickets’ or ‘spindles’.

Balustrade

Rail, posts and vertical balusters along the edge of a stairway or elevated walkway.

Batten

Narrow strips of wood, metal or plastic used to cover joints or as decorative vertical members over plywood or other panels, also used to pack out surfaces for linings to be affixed to.

BCA

Abbreviation for Building Code of Australia.

Beam

Structural member transversely supporting a load. A structural member carrying building loads (weight) from one support to another. Sometimes called a “girder”.

Bi-fold Door

Doors that are hinged in the middle for opening in a smaller area than standard swing doors. Often used for closet doors.

Blue Print(s)

An old method of copying used for architectural drawings. Usually used to describe the drawing of a structure which is prepared by an architect or designer for the purpose of design and planning, estimating, securing permits and actual construction.

Boardroom Chair

Broadly speaking it is a medium to high back swivel only chair with arms, no height adjustment so after the meeting chairs are not looking untidy all sitting at different heights.

Bookcase

A set of shelves, sitting on the floor either fixed to a wall or free-standing, used for holding books, these units have no doors.

Brick Lintel

Metal angle iron that brick rests on, especially above a window, door, or other opening.

Brick Tie

Small, corrugated metal nailed to wall sheeting or studs. They are inserted into the grout mortar joint of the veneer brick, holding the veneer wall to the sheeted wall behind it.

Bulkhead

A lower or higher level ceiling to the main ceiling plane used either to encase services or provide a decorative feature, usually but not always constructed of plaster board and steel framing.

Butt Joint

Junction where the ends of two timbers meet, and also where sheets of gyprock meet on the 1200mm edge. To place materials end-to-end or end-to-edge without overlapping.

Cable port / outlet

A small plastic ring that fits in a hole in a desk top to allow cables to pass through, usually 64mm or 80mm

Carpet Backing

Holds the pile fabric in place.

Casement

Frames of wood or metal enclosing part (or all) of a window sash. May be opened by means of hinges affixed to the vertical edges.

Casement Window

Window with hinges on one of the vertical sides and swings open like a normal door.

Casing Bead

Aluminium or plastic trim moulding installed around a door, window opening or ceiling junction.

Cat 5e

An Abbreviation for Category 5 enhanced. It is data cabling generally used for phone and IT, will not reach gigabyte speed.

Cat 6

An Abbreviation for Category 6. It is data cabling generally used for phone and IT, can reach gigabyte speed if installed using the correct methods, generally speaking installation is approx. 30% dearer than its cat 5e counterpart.

Caulking

Flexible material used to seal a gap between two surfaces.

Cbd

Abbreviation for Cupboard, also an abbreviation for “Central Business District”

CC

Abbreviation for Construction Certificate (with reference to a council submission)

CCA (Copper Chrome Arsenate)

(often used in treated pine) Pesticide that is forced into wood under high pressure to protect it from termites, other wood boring insects and decay caused by fungus.

Ceiling Joist

One of a series of parallel framing members used to support ceiling loads and supported in turn by larger beams, girders or bearing walls. Also called “roof joists”.

Ceiling Tiles

Panels generally mineral fibre that sit into a ceiling grid system to close the ceiling, most common size fits a 1200 x 600 grid

Cement

Grey powder that is the “glue” in concrete. Portland cement. Also a generic term for any adhesive.

Ceramic Tile

Man-made or machine-made clay tile used to finish a floor or wall. Generally used in bathtub and shower enclosures and kitchen splashbacks.

Chair Rail

Interior trim material installed about 900 – 1200mm above finished floor level horizontally.

Chalk Line

Line made by snapping a taut string or cord dusted with chalk. Used for alignment purposes.

Chip Board

Manufactured wood panel made out of wood chips and glue. Often used as a substitute for plywood in the exterior wall and roof sheathing.

Circuit

Path of electrical flow from a power source through an outlet and back to ground.

Circuit Breaker

Device which looks like a switch and is usually located inside electrical breaker panel or circuit breaker box. Designed to (1) shut of the power to portions or all of the area; and (2) to limit the amount of power flowing through a circuit (measured in amperes).

Compactus

Broadly speaking it is a rolling bookcase storage unit where by steel bookcases move left to right to expose access to files etc… They normally come with a range of accessories and normally will require approval from a structural engineer prior to installation due to the weight they impose on the building structure.

Concrete

Mixture of Portland cement, sand, gravel and water. Used to make garage and basement floors, sidewalks, patios, foundation walls, etc. Commonly reinforced with steel rods (rebar) or wire screening (mesh).

CondensingUnit

Outdoor component of a cooling system. Includes a compressor and condensing coil designed to give off heat.

Conduit [electrical]

Pipe in which wire is installed, usually PVC but sometimes metal.

Consultant

An expert who charges a fee for providing advice or services in a particular field to service a client.

Control Joint

Tooled, straight grooves made on concrete floors to “control” where the concrete should crack.

Convection

Currents created by heating air, which rises and pulls cooler air behind it.

Credenza

A floor mounted cabinet normally 720mm high with either hinged or sliding doors.

Cupboard

A floor mounted cabinet normally at least 900mm high with either hinged or sliding doors.

“D” end Desk

A Desk with a “D” shaped end.

DA

Abbreviation for Development Application (with reference to a council submission).

DA/CC

Abbreviation for Development Application and Construction Certificate (with reference to a council submission).

Dacron

Dacron is a Trademark label for a polyester insulation used in partition walls, S2 is a standard rating used in a normal partition wall.

Dado

Groove cut into a board or panel intended to receive the edge of a connecting board or panel.

Dead Bolt

Exterior security lock installed on exterior entry doors that can be activated only with a key or thumb-turn. Unlike a latch, which has a bevelled tongue, dead bolts have square ends.

Dedicated Circuit

Electrical circuit that serves only one appliance (i.e.: hot water service).

Desk

A table with a broad flat top set at height of approximately 720mm, sometimes with drawers attached.

Desk top

The top only of a desk, usually this way when fixed to a workstation screen for support

Desk top fixing bracket A bracket

used in workstation construction that fixes the desk top to the screen.

DGPO

Abbreviation for Double General Power Outlet (Double Power Point).

Distribution Board or DB

Electrical box that distributes electric power entering a building to each branch circuit (each plug and switch) and composed of circuit breakers.

Door jamb

Surrounding case into which and out of which a door closes and opens.

Door Stop

Style that the door will rest upon when it’s in a closed position, also the terminology for the stop mounted at floor level that the door opens on to.

Double Glazing

Window or door in which two panes of glass are used with a sealed air space between, for acoustic and thermal insulation.

Earthwork 

The process of excavating, moving, and grading soil and rock for construction purposes.

Eaves  

The part of a roof that overhangs the walls of a building.

Egress 

A means of exiting a building, often referring to emergency exits.

Elevation  

A drawing that shows the exterior view of a building from one side.

Electrical Plan

A detailed plan showing the electrical layout of a building, including the locations of outlets, switches, and fixtures.

Engineered Wood  

Man-made wood products created by binding or fixing the strands, particles, fibres, or veneers of wood together with adhesives or other methods to form composite materials.

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) 

A process that evaluates the environmental effects of a proposed construction project before decisions are made.

Epoxy Flooring  

A durable and high-performance flooring system created by applying layers of epoxy resin.

Excavation 

The process of digging, removing soil, rock, or other materials to create a space for foundations, basements, or other underground structures.

Expansion Joint  

A joint that allows for the expansion and contraction of building materials due to temperature changes, preventing cracks and structural damage.

Exterior Finish  

The outer surface of a building, including materials such as brick, stucco, or siding, which provide weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.

Estimate  

A detailed approximation of the costs associated with a construction project, including materials, labour, and other expenses.

Erosion Control  

Measures taken to prevent soil erosion during and after construction, such as silt fences, erosion control blankets, and vegetation.

Escalation Clause

A contract provision that allows for an increase in costs due to changes in market conditions or inflation.

Estimator

A professional who calculates the cost of a construction project, considering materials, labour, equipment, and other expenses.

Facade

The exterior face or wall of a building, typically one that is elaborately designed or faces a public space.

False Ceiling

A secondary ceiling that hangs below the main structural ceiling, often used to conceal wiring, ductwork, and other utilities while enhancing aesthetic appeal and acoustics.

Fasteners

Hardware devices such as screws, bolts, and nails used to join or affix materials together.

Façade Engineering

A field of engineering that focuses on the design and performance of the exterior of buildings, ensuring they are both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound.

Feasibility Study

An analysis conducted to determine the viability, cost, and benefits of a construction project before proceeding with detailed planning and execution.

Feature Wall

A wall within a room that stands out due to its design, colour, texture, or material, often used as a focal point in interior design.

Fitout

The process of making an interior space suitable for occupation, which includes installing fixtures, fittings, and finishes according to the needs and preferences of the client.

Fixtures

Items that are fixed in place within a building, such as lighting, plumbing, and built-in furniture, which are essential for the functionality and design of a space.

Flashing

Thin pieces of impervious material installed to prevent water penetration at joints or intersections in a building, particularly around windows, doors, and roof penetrations.

Floor Plan

A scaled diagram of a room or building viewed from above, showing the arrangement of spaces, walls, doors, windows, and other features.

Footings

The structural elements of a building that distribute the load from the foundation walls to the ground, providing stability and support.

Formwork

Temporary moulds or structures used to support and shape poured concrete until it hardens and can support itself.

Framing

The structural framework of a building, typically consisting of timber or steel, that provides support for the roof, walls, and floors.

Free-Standing

A structure or furniture piece that stands on its own without attachment to another structure or wall.

Functionality

The practical aspects of a space or building, ensuring it meets the intended use and needs of the occupants.

Furring

Strips of wood or metal attached to a wall or ceiling to provide a level surface for attaching finish materials such as plasterboard or panelling.

Galvanised Steel

Steel that has been coated with a layer of zinc to protect it from rust and corrosion. Commonly used in construction for its durability and strength.

Gantt Chart

A type of bar chart that illustrates a project schedule. It shows the start and finish dates of various elements of a project, helping in planning and tracking progress.

Gasket

A sealing material placed between two surfaces to prevent leakage of fluids or gases. Used in plumbing, HVAC systems, and other construction applications.

General Contractor (GC)

The main contractor responsible for the overall coordination of a project. The GC hires and manages subcontractors, oversees the construction process, and ensures the project is completed on time and within budget.

Glazing

The installation of glass in windows, doors, and walls. It can also refer to the glass itself and the work done by glaziers, who are the skilled tradespeople specializing in glass installation.

Grade

The level or slope of the ground on a construction site. It also refers to the quality of materials, such as “construction-grade” materials being those suitable for use in building.

Green Building

A building designed, constructed, and operated to minimise its environmental impact. This includes using sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and renewable energy sources.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

A device designed to protect people from electrical shock by monitoring the amount of current flowing in a circuit and shutting it off if an imbalance is detected. Commonly used in areas with high moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens.

Grout

A mixture of water, cement, sand, and sometimes colour tint that is used to fill gaps between tiles and secure them in place. It also helps to prevent water infiltration and add strength to the tiled surface.Gyprock
A brand name commonly used in Australia for gypsum board or drywall. It is used to create interior walls and ceilings and is known for its ease of installation and finish.

Hardwood

Timber obtained from deciduous trees, known for its density, durability, and strength. Commonly used in flooring, furniture, and structural applications.

HVAC

Acronym for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. This system is essential for regulating indoor climate and ensuring air quality within buildings.

Head Contractor

The main contractor responsible for the overall coordination and completion of a construction project. They oversee subcontractors and ensure that the project meets specifications and deadlines.

Hoist

A mechanical device used for lifting or lowering heavy materials or equipment on a construction site. Can be manual, electric, or hydraulic.

Handover

The process of officially transferring ownership or responsibility of a completed project or part of a project from the construction team to the client or end-user.

High-Rise

A building that is significantly taller than the surrounding structures, often defined as being more than 12 storeys high. These buildings require special design considerations for structural integrity, safety, and services.

Hard Hat

A protective helmet worn on construction sites to safeguard against head injuries caused by falling objects, debris, or accidental impacts.

Heritage Building

A building that has historical, cultural, or architectural significance and is often protected by laws or regulations to preserve its original character and features.

Horizontal Datum

A reference point or plane used in surveying and construction to ensure that measurements and levels are consistent and accurate across the site.

Hot Works

Construction activities that involve open flames, sparks, or heat, such as welding, cutting, and grinding. Special precautions and permits are usually required to manage fire risks.

Hydraulic System

A system that uses fluid pressure to power machinery and equipment, commonly used in construction for tasks like lifting, moving, and drilling.

Handover Documentation

A set of documents provided to the client at the end of a construction project, detailing all aspects of the completed work, including warranties, operation manuals, and compliance certificates.

Hatch

An opening in a floor, wall, or roof that provides access to different levels or areas of a building, often equipped with a cover or door.

House Frame

The skeletal structure of a house, usually made of timber or steel, that supports the roof, walls, and floors.

Hazardous Materials

Substances that pose a risk to health, safety, or the environment, such as asbestos, lead, or chemicals, which require special handling and disposal procedures.

High-Strength Concrete

Concrete with a compressive strength significantly higher than that of standard concrete, used in applications requiring enhanced durability and load-bearing capacity.

Hinged Door

A door mounted on hinges, allowing it to swing open and close. Commonly used in both residential and commercial construction.

Heat Insulation

Materials or systems designed to reduce the transfer of heat between the inside and outside of a building, improving energy efficiency and comfort.Hydro Excavation
A non-destructive excavation method that uses high-pressure water to break up soil, which is then removed by a vacuum system. Ideal for sensitive or confined areas.

IBC (International Building Code)

A set of building codes developed by the International Code Council (ICC) and used as a standard for construction practices.

IEQ (Indoor Environmental Quality)

Refers to the quality of a building’s environment in relation to the health and well-being of those who occupy the space. This includes air quality, lighting, thermal conditions, and ergonomics.

IFC (Issued for Construction)

Drawings or plans that have been approved and issued for the construction phase of a project.

Impervious Surface

A surface that does not allow water to pass through, such as concrete or asphalt, often used in reference to environmental and drainage considerations in construction projects.

Incidental Cost

Minor costs that occur as part of a larger project, often unforeseen and typically related to small adjustments or additional work.

Independent Contractor

A person or business entity contracted to perform work for another entity as a non-employee. They typically provide their own tools and materials and control how they complete their work.

Inspection

The process of reviewing and assessing the quality, safety, and compliance of construction work with relevant standards and regulations.

Insulation

Materials used in buildings to reduce heat loss or gain, providing thermal comfort and energy efficiency. Common types include fibreglass, foam, and reflective barriers.

Interior Fitout

The process of making the interior spaces of a building suitable for occupation, including installation of partitions, flooring, ceilings, and other finishes.

Invoice

A detailed statement of goods shipped or services rendered, with a request for payment. In construction, invoices often include labour, materials, and additional costs.

Ironmongery

A British term used in Australia referring to hardware such as door handles, locks, hinges, and other metal fittings used in construction.

ITP (Inspection Test Plan)

A document detailing the inspection and testing requirements for a particular construction project, outlining when and how inspections should occur, and what standards must be met.

Jack Plane

A medium-sized hand plane used in woodworking to flatten and smooth rough timber surfaces.

Jamb

The vertical sides of a doorway or window frame.

Joist

Horizontal structural members that support floors or ceilings. Typically made of timber, steel, or engineered wood.

Joinery

The art or trade of constructing wooden components, such as doors, windows, cabinets, and furniture, often involves precise cutting and fitting.

Joint Compound

A material used to seal joints between sheets of drywall, providing a smooth, even surface for painting or finishing.

Junction Box

An enclosure within a wiring system where wires are connected, typically used in electrical installations to protect and manage connections.

Jurisdiction

The official power to make legal decisions and judgments, often relating to specific geographic areas or types of cases within the construction industry, such as building codes and permits.

Junction

A point where two or more elements meet, such as where different materials or structural components come together in a building.

Jackhammer

A pneumatic or electro-mechanical tool used to break up rock, pavement, and concrete. Essential for demolition work in construction.

Jigsaw

A power tool with a reciprocating blade used for cutting curves and complex shapes in wood, metal, or other materials.

Jack Stud

A shortened stud that supports the lintel above a door or window opening, also known as a trimmer stud.

Key Performance Indicator (KPI)

A measurable value that demonstrates how effectively a company is achieving key business objectives. KPIs are used to evaluate success at reaching targets.

Kickoff Meeting

The first meeting with the project team and the client of the project to discuss the project’s main objectives and plans. This meeting sets the tone and the direction for the project.

Kiln-Dried Timber

Timber that has been dried in a kiln to remove moisture. This process helps to ensure stability and strength in the timber, reducing the likelihood of warping or splitting.

King Post

A central vertical post used in architectural or structural designs, particularly in timber framing and roof trusses, to provide support and strength.

Knockdown Rebuild (KDR)

A process where an existing home is demolished, and a new home is built on the same site. This is often chosen over renovation to better meet modern needs and standards.

Knock-In Fitting

A type of fitting that is installed by knocking it into place, typically used in furniture assembly and joinery.

Knot

A hard, cross-grained mass of wood where a branch was growing out of the trunk. Knots can affect the strength and appearance of timber.

Known Loss

A loss that has already been identified and recognized. In construction, this can refer to any anticipated but accepted loss, like material wastage.

Laminate

A product made by bonding together two or more layers of material to improve strength, stability, or appearance. Often used for countertops, flooring, and cabinetry.

Lath

A thin, narrow strip of wood used as a support for plaster, tiles, or other materials. Historically used in wall construction before the advent of modern drywall.

Lintel

A horizontal structural member placed over an opening, such as a door or window, which supports the load above it.

Load-Bearing Wall

A wall that supports the weight of the structure above it, including the roof and upper floors, and transfers that weight to the foundation.

Lock-Up Stage

A stage in construction when the building is fully enclosed, with doors and windows installed, making it secure from unauthorised access.

Loft

An upper storey or attic in a building, typically used for storage or additional living space.

Levelling

The process of ensuring that a surface is perfectly horizontal or vertical. Essential for accurate construction and installation.

Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL)

An engineered wood product made by layering thin sheets of wood veneer and bonding them together with adhesives. Used for beams, headers, and other structural applications.

Life Cycle Cost

The total cost of owning, operating, maintaining, and disposing of a building or its components over its useful life. Important for assessing the long-term value of construction projects.

Licensed Builder

A builder who holds the necessary licences and certifications required by state or territory regulations to carry out construction work legally.

Light Gauge Steel

Thin steel sheets formed into shapes used as structural elements in construction, such as framing for walls and roofs.

Load Path

The route by which the loads (weights) from the building components are transferred to the foundation. A well-defined load path is crucial for structural stability.

Low-E Glass

Low-emissivity glass with a special coating designed to reduce heat transfer, improving energy efficiency in buildings.

Land Survey

The process of measuring and mapping out the land and its features to determine boundaries, topography, and other characteristics important for construction planning.

Lockset

The complete assembly of parts that make up the locking mechanism of a door, including the lock, handle, strike plate, and key.

Maintenance

Regular upkeep and repairs needed to keep a building or system in good working condition.

Masonry

Construction using stone, brick, or concrete blocks.

Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP)

The three main aspects of building design and construction that deal with the mechanical systems, electrical wiring, and plumbing installations.

Metal Studs

Metal framing used in the construction of walls and ceilings.

Modular Construction

A construction method where sections of a building are manufactured off-site and then assembled on-site.

Mortar

A mixture of sand, cement, lime, and water used to bond bricks, stones, or blocks together.

Moisture Barrier

A material used to prevent moisture from penetrating into the structure, often used in walls and roofs.

Millwork

Custom-made woodwork that includes cabinetry, moulding, and trim.

Mitigation

Steps taken to reduce or eliminate risks to construction, often in reference to environmental impacts or safety hazards.

Masonry Veneer

A thin layer of masonry used as a decorative surface, not a structural component.

Manufacturing Fitout

The process of fitting out a space for manufacturing purposes, including the installation of equipment and machinery.

Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)

Documentation that provides information on the properties and handling of specific construction materials.

Master Plan

A comprehensive plan outlining the development and future growth of a project or site.

Manhole

An access point to underground utilities, often covered by a heavy cover to prevent unauthorised access.

Nailer

A type of fastener used in construction, usually for wood, to join materials together.

Nail Plate

A metal plate with protruding nails used to join timber in construction.

Nail Gun

A power tool used to drive nails into wood or other materials.

Nailing Schedule

A detailed plan or specification outlining the size, type, and spacing of nails for a construction project.

NCC (National Construction Code)

The set of minimum standards for building and construction in Australia, covering safety, health, amenity, and sustainability.

Newel Post

A vertical post at the bottom or top of a staircase that supports the handrail.

Non-combustible Material

Materials that do not burn or ignite easily, used in construction for safety purposes.

Nominal Size

The stated or standard size of a material before any finishing processes, such as planing or sanding.

Nosing

The front edge of a stair tread that extends beyond the riser, often rounded for safety and aesthetic purposes.

Notching

Cutting out sections from wood or other materials to allow them to fit together, often used in framing or joinery.

Nuts and Bolts

Essential fasteners used in construction to join materials together, with nuts threading onto bolts to secure them.

Office Fitout

Refers to the process of customising an office space to meet the specific needs of the occupants. This includes layout design, partitioning, furniture installation, and interior decoration.

On-site

Refers to activities or work done at the physical location of the construction project rather than at a remote or off-site location.

Occupancy Certificate

A document issued by local authorities certifying that a building or part of a building complies with all applicable building codes and regulations and is safe for occupation.

Overheads

Costs incurred by a construction company that are not directly attributable to a specific project, such as administrative expenses, office rent, utilities, etc.

Open Plan Office

An office layout characterised by minimal or no internal walls, promoting open space and facilitating communication and collaboration among employees.

Owner’s Corporation: In strata-titled buildings, the owner’s corporation is responsible for managing and maintaining common property and administering the body corporate.

Partitioning

The process of dividing interior spaces into sections using walls or partitions.

Project Management

The planning, coordination, and control of a project from start to finish.

Plasterboard

Also known as drywall or gypsum board, used for constructing interior walls and ceilings.

Procurement

The process of acquiring goods, materials, or services for a construction project.

Permits

Official documents or licences required by local authorities to undertake construction work.

Penalties and Liquidated Damages

Terms in contracts specifying consequences for delays or breaches of agreement.

Preliminary Works

 Initial tasks such as site preparation and surveys before main construction begins.

Paving

Covering outdoor areas with materials such as concrete, asphalt, or stone for pathways or driveways.

Quality Assurance (QA)

Processes and procedures implemented to ensure that the fitouts or construction projects meet specified requirements and standards.

Quantity Surveyor

A professional who estimates and manages the costs related to fitouts or construction projects, ensuring budget compliance.

Quote

A formal document outlining the costs and specifications for a fitouts or construction project, provided to potential clients.

Retrofitting

Modifying or upgrading existing structures or systems to meet current standards or requirements.

Risk Assessment

Evaluating potential risks associated with construction activities to implement suitable control measures.

Rough-In

The initial phase of electrical or plumbing installation before walls are closed up, often referred to as the first fix.

Roofer

A specialist in installing and repairing roofs.

Rebar

Short for reinforcing bar, used in concrete construction to provide strength and stability.

Residential Fitout

Interior construction work for residential properties, including renovations and installations.

Retention Money

Funds withheld by clients or principal contractors as security against defects or incomplete work.

Rectification

Correcting defects or deficiencies in construction work to meet contractual or regulatory standards.

Shopfitting

The process of designing and fitting out retail or commercial spaces.

Site Manager

Responsible for overseeing operations on a construction site.

Safety Compliance

Ensuring adherence to health and safety regulations on-site.

Subcontractor

A company or individual hired by a main contractor to perform specific tasks.

Structural Engineer

A professional responsible for designing and assessing structures.

Sustainability

Focus on environmentally friendly practices in construction.

Specifications

Detailed descriptions of materials, standards, and workmanship required for a project.

Site Assessment

Evaluating the suitability of a location for construction or fitout projects.

Tenant Fitout

The customization of interior space to meet the specific needs of a tenant.

Tender

A formal offer or bid submitted in response to a request for proposals or bids for a construction project.

Toolbox Talk

A short safety meeting or discussion conducted on-site to address specific hazards and safe work practices.

Turnkey

A project delivery method where the contractor is responsible for the entire project from design to completion.

Traffic Management Plan

A plan that outlines how vehicle and pedestrian traffic will be managed on-site to ensure safety during construction activities.

Underlayment

Material laid beneath a finish floor to provide a smooth, level surface.

Union

Organisation representing workers’ interests in negotiations with employers, often in construction trades.

Utilities

Essential services such as water, electricity, gas, and telecommunications required in buildings.

Variation Order

A formal document that specifies changes to the original construction contract.

Veneer

Thin slices of wood or other decorative material applied to surfaces for aesthetic purposes.

Ventilation

The process of providing fresh air to a building or space and removing stale air.

Vertical Transportation

Refers to elevators, escalators, or lifts used to transport people or goods vertically within a building.

VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds)

Chemical compounds that can evaporate and contribute to indoor air pollution; often found in paints, adhesives, and other building materials.

Warranty

Guarantee provided by a manufacturer or contractor ensuring the quality and reliability of their products or services for a specified period.

Waterproofing

Process of making a surface or structure resistant to the ingress of water, crucial in construction to prevent water damage.

Workmanship

The quality of skill and craftsmanship put into construction or fitout projects, reflecting the expertise and diligence of the workers.

Workspace Optimization

Design and planning strategies aimed at maximising the efficiency and usability of office or workspace layouts.

Waste Management

Handling and disposal of construction waste materials in an environmentally responsible manner, often through recycling and proper disposal practices.

X-Bracing

A type of structural bracing used to provide lateral support in buildings, especially in seismic or high-wind areas.

Yard

Typically refers to a storage area for construction materials, equipment, or vehicles on a construction site.

Yardage

Measurement used in construction for materials such as concrete or asphalt, often calculated in cubic yards.

Yellow Goods

Refers to heavy machinery and equipment used in construction, typically painted yellow, such as excavators, bulldozers, and loaders.

Yield Strength

The stress at which a material begins to deform permanently, used to determine the structural integrity of materials used in construction.

Yoke

A metal U-shaped fitting used in construction to connect structural components such as beams or trusses.

Zero Defects

A quality management approach aiming for projects to be completed without any defects or issues.

Zone

Refers to designated areas within a construction site or building, often categorised for specific uses or purposes.