SRV-03 · SERVICES / COST PLANNING & ESTIMATING
Cost planning and construction estimating, from Newbury to nationwide
Every good decision on a construction project starts with a believable number. We prepare benchmarked viabilities, staged cost plans, estimates and bills of quantities measured from drawings, for developers, contractors and consultants across the UK.
What the service involves
Order-of-cost estimates tested against our database of priced schemes, so a site can be appraised before design fees are spent.
Cost plans at each design stage, tracking the budget as the scheme develops and flagging drift early.
Options priced so the design team can choose with the cost consequence in front of them.
Tender estimates and first-principles pricing for main contractors and subcontractors, from drawings and specifications.
Measured bills and schedules of works for tender, so contractors price the same thing and returns compare like for like.
Who it is for
Developers appraising land or testing a scheme; contractors and subcontractors who need overflow estimating capacity at tender; architects who want a cost plan alongside a design; and private clients who want to know what a project will cost before committing.
What you get
- ▸A measured estimate with the quantities and rates shown, not a lump sum
- ▸Benchmarks against comparable priced schemes
- ▸A cost plan that is updated as the design moves
- ▸Fast turnaround on tender estimates, with a clear list of assumptions and exclusions
Typical projects
Residential schemes from single houses to several hundred plots, apartment buildings, sports and leisure facilities, education and light commercial. Our priced work covers more than 250 projects and £150 million of construction value over the last two years.
Local knowledge, national reach
Cost planning is strongest when it is grounded in local rates and we know the Berkshire, Hampshire and Thames Valley market well. Estimating and bills of quantities are produced entirely from drawings, so we take that work on for clients anywhere in the UK.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an estimate and a cost plan?
An estimate is a single view of cost at a point in time. A cost plan is a living document that starts as an order-of-cost estimate, becomes elemental as the design develops and is reconciled at each stage, so the client always knows where the budget sits.
How accurate is an early cost estimate?
At feasibility, with a site plan and accommodation schedule, an estimate is typically within 10 to 15 per cent. Accuracy tightens as the design is fixed. We always state the assumptions and the level of design information the figure is based on.
Can you produce a bill of quantities from my drawings?
Yes. Send the drawings and specification and we will measure a bill or schedule of works for tender. This is available nationwide because it does not require site attendance.
Do you provide estimating for contractors?
Yes. We support main contractors and subcontractors at tender with first-principles pricing and measured take-offs, either for individual bids or as ongoing overflow capacity.
How quickly can you turn an estimate around?
It depends on the size and the information available. Single houses and small schemes are usually a matter of days; larger tenders are programmed to the bid deadline. Tell us the date and we will confirm whether it is achievable.