Estimate Accuracy and Quality Policy

How we measure, price and check every construction estimate — and how accuracy depends on the design stage of your documents.

QUICK ANSWER

How Accurate Is a Construction Estimate?

The accuracy of a construction estimate depends mainly on how complete the design is. Early conceptual estimates carry wide ranges because much of the project is undefined, while estimates from complete construction documents are much tighter. Industry guidance such as AACE International’s estimate classification system describes this relationship, and we state the basis and design stage of every estimate so you know how to use it.

Our Quality Commitments

ESTIMATE CLASSES

How Design Stage Affects Accuracy

Based on the estimate classification concept published by AACE International. Expected accuracy narrows as design matures; actual results also depend on market conditions and scope changes.

Class 5 — Concept Screening

Program or massing only. Used for feasibility. Widest range.

Class 4 — Feasibility / Schematic

Early schematic drawings. Used for budget authorization.

Class 3 — Design Development

Systems defined. Used for budget control and funding.

Class 2 — Construction Documents

Mostly complete drawings. Used for bids and control.

Related: Bid Estimating Services

Class 1 — Final Documents

Complete documents and specs. Used for check estimates and bids.

Related: Bid Estimating Services

QUALITY CHECKLIST

What Our Second-Estimator Review Checks

Drawing scales verified on every sheet before measuring
Plans cross-checked with sections, details and schedules
All addenda logged and incorporated
Quantities checked against independent rough calculations
Unit costs checked against current pricing sources
Labor basis and location factors confirmed
Formulas, totals and markups verified in the workbook
Clarifications and exclusions reviewed for completeness

Sources of Cost Data

Current supplier and manufacturer quotes
Published regional cost databases
New York State prevailing wage schedules (where required)
Union and open-shop labor rate information
Historical project data, adjusted for date and location

Every estimate states its pricing date so you can account for later escalation.

LIMITATIONS

What an Estimate Can and Cannot Guarantee

Document Quality

Estimates can only be as complete as the drawings and information provided.

Market Changes

Material and labor prices change after the pricing date.

Scope Changes

Design changes and addenda after delivery are not reflected until revised.

Means & Methods

Contractors' own methods, productivity and buyout affect final costs.

An estimate is a professional opinion of probable cost, not a guarantee. See our Terms and Conditions, Disclaimer and Editorial Policy.

FAQS

Accuracy Questions

More answers on our Frequently Asked Questions page, or contact our estimators.

What happens if you make a mistake?

Errors in our work are corrected at no charge as soon as they are reported.

Do you guarantee the estimate total?

No. An estimate is a professional opinion of probable cost based on documents and pricing at a point in time.

How do I know which class my estimate is?

Each estimate states its basis, design stage and key assumptions.

How are quantities verified?

A second estimator checks scales, measurements and cross-references before delivery.

Get Your New York Construction Estimate

Send your plans today and receive a detailed, trade-by-trade estimate priced for New York labor, materials and site conditions — ready for bidding, budgeting or financing.

OFFICE LOCATION

Visit or Contact Our Brooklyn Office

New York Cost Estimating works from Brooklyn and serves contractors, developers, owners and design teams across all five boroughs, Westchester, Long Island and Upstate New York. Plans are reviewed digitally, so you can send drawings from anywhere in the state.