Mistakes To Be Avoided In Construction Estimation

Construction estimation is a very complex process. This leaves a room for many errors in the estimation process. Here is a guide that can help you avoid some common mistakes while preparing the construction estimate.

First of all you should avoid the mistakes in arithmetic. Since there are many calculations to be done during construction, you should use an electronic calculator with a recording tape. You should attach the tape with the estimate sheet. Also you should get the calculations checked by someone else.

You should avoid making mistakes while taking measurements from plans and specifications. These mistakes can result in an increase in the over all cost of the construction items as the items ordered will not be based on the right measurement.

Never use a wrong labor wage rate for estimation. The hourly wage rate varies from place to place. You should consult the local union offices to verify current wage rates, overtime rates and fringe benefits.

You should not include the improper price for materials and supplies in your estimate. This can cause a huge error in the overall estimate. Also do not use improper units of measure as it can cause a substantial cost decrease or increase in the calculation.

You should not exclude items like scaffolding, ramps, and guardrails from the estimate, just because you think that their cost is relatively at the lesser side. Also you should avoid including ill maintained or inefficient machinery or equipment. This is because machinery breakdowns and repairs can prove to be very costly and can even delay construction.

You should make it a point to visit the site of construction. A visit can tell you about some expenses that have to be done prior to the construction like demolition of any structure or fixing the topography. These expenses have to be included to get an accurate construction estimate.

You should avoid the miscalculation of the haulage costs. These costs involve the hauling of equipment, machinery and material to the construction site. A mistake in the calculation of these costs can cause a huge difference in the overall estimation.

Avoid taking any shortcuts in estimation as it can prove to be very risky. These shortcuts usually result in guesstimating. This means that you use cubic foot or square feet costs, rather than details. Also avoid the use of lump sum figures, as they can amount to a huge error while making estimates.

Avoid any inadequacy in overhead charges as well as the inclusion of contingency items without reason. It will only increase the over all cost.

If you avoid these common mistakes, you are sure to come up with a proper construction estimate that will help you avoid the wastage of money.

Construction Estimating