We provide cost estimates for construction projects, detailed cost analysis to permit comparison of alternative construction materials or sequencing, cost modeling, and other costing and estimating services.
In evaluating alternatives, we frequently integrate cost estimating and scheduling to fully account for the cost difference, such as additional carrying costs for general condition costs, resulting from differences in schedule durations. For a typical construction project, we are usually asked for the following cost estimates:
Preliminary Cost Estimate: An order of magnitude estimate, prepared when little or no design information is available to give the project planners an idea of whether the project is worth pursuing, and to weigh alternatives. Frequently these analyses will be based upon square foot costs specific for a building type. For renovation projects, this square foot cost basis can be adjusted for a specific project by backing out costs for systems (for example footings, superstructure, site work) that will be retained. For projects, such as comparison of brownfield sites for redevelopment, the costs of remediation and associated cost of schedule impacts for remediation and permitting can easily be integrated into the preliminary cost estimate.
Alternative Construction Analysis: Detailed analysis of construction costs associated with different alternatives, such as a decision to use a steel or concrete superstructure. As alternatives can have significant scheduling impacts, we typically integrate this type of cost analysis with a CPM scheduling analysis.
Project Scope Cost Estimate: An estimate of probable construction costs that becomes more detailed as the project proceeds through the phases of design and preparation of contract documents.
Construction Cost Estimate: An accurate cost estimate prepared from fully designed plans and specifications and contract documents. This is also a pre-bid estimate. It must be reconciled with the construction bids received.
Post Bid Construction Reconciliation: Once the project is bid, the estimated cost can be replaced with bid costs so that costs that may occur due to changes in the work can be estimated more accurately. This may be useful in renovation projects where existing conditions are not fully understood, and it is anticipated that it will be necessary to negotiation the cost for dealing with unforeseen conditions.
As Built Cost Reconciliation: Sorts the costs as required for tax and budgeting.
We use a variety of tools for cost estimating including, RS Means, Xactimate, historical costs and actual costs, and cost data from local subcontractors, material suppliers, and manufacturers.
Representative Projects:
Here are some examples of past projects that illustrate our approach.