Page 193 - TCDB combined Book

170 The Complete DESIGN BUILDER

Estimating Checklist:

The use of a checklist for ensuring complete estimates is a practical decision. The danger
of relying on a checklist will be the accuracy and completeness of the estimate items it contains.

Before actual preparation of an estimate is when a checklist should be prepared and
edited. Review your project requirements and using the traditional four digit numbering system
identify all the major categories that will be required for a particular estimate. Upon completion
of the traditional categorization by major divisions review each division and identify the
subdivision and phases of each category that will apply. This process does not take much time
and will be invaluable in determining the subcontract quotations required and portions of the
work that will need your full estimating input. Upon completion of your project estimate this
detailed and edited checklist will assist in ensuring the completeness and accuracy of your
estimates.

Considering the concentration required in the preparation of an estimate and other tasks
you will be required to carry out at the same time makes this checklist mandatory. We suggest
you avoid preprinted checklists that have not been reviewed or edited for each proposal estimate.

Detailed checklists for portions of the project work that will not be quantified with your
estimate should be prepared. Subcontractors and professionals should provide detailed checklist
information for your use, in ensuring the completeness and accuracy of their quotations. Never
assume that all requests for outside prices and quotations will be submitted on an all-inclusive
basis. Preparation of a separate checklist that deals with outside estimating, pricing and
quotations will be just as important as the main checklist. This separate checklist when prepared
as a data base document will require minimal editing and preview for future proposal estimates.

The following checklist can be used as a template while you will be revising and adding
items unique to a particular project, or, for the type of work you carry out. Completing this
checklist should ensure that no major item has been overlooked. A thoroughly completed
checklist will also provide the basis for requirements on specifications, drawings, and other items
required in providing a complete estimate, proposal, and professional presentation.