Requisites of project estimate; factors

Requisites for a project estimate

An estimate can be prepared properly only when the following are available:

1. Drawings: plans, elevations, sections and detailed drawings of all items, to scale and dimensioned.
2. Specifications: the quality of materials and workmanship for every item.
3. Rates: current District Rates for materials, labour and equipment, with rate analysis of non-scheduled items.
4. Site data: survey, soil and geological reports, access, lead and lift of materials.
5. Norms and standards: DUDBC norms, Nepal Building Code, Nepal Road Standard, units of measurement.
6. Policy data: provisions for contingency, overhead, profit, VAT and supervision as per the Public Procurement Act and Rules.

Factors considered in a building project estimate

• Type and purpose of the building (residential, school, hospital) and its quality of finish.
• Location and site condition: soil, water table, slope, access, local availability of materials and labour.
• Seismic zone and structural system - load-bearing or RCC frame, as per NBC.
• Cost of materials, labour and transport: changes in market rates and seasons.
• Time: shorter completion time needs more machinery and overtime cost.
• Construction method and equipment: mixers, lifts, scaffolding.
• Services and external works: sanitary, electrical, water supply, fire safety, boundary wall.
• Taxes, overhead, profit, contingency (5%), escalation and supervision cost.