ABSTRACT
The fundamental purpose of this book is to provide help to all those who require information about changes in construction costs and prices over time by allowing them to locate an appropriate index and to apply it correctly. We therefore provide a guide to the nature and sources of construction indices and a comprehensive collection of the data available. The number of indices available is now very large; indeed their preparation over recent years has been something of a growth industry. In all, more than 90 series are included here. This large number provides one of the main justifications for the book because the sheer volume of data presents the potential user with considerable difficulties in locating the information he or she needs and making a suitable choice among a variety of alternatives. Many pitfalls confront the ignorant and the unwary.
