The Secrets of Estimating Construction Projects as a General Contractor

🧰A general contractor does not do detailed take-offs for every item in a construction project but focuses on putting together the entire project package.

👥Understanding construction and building reliable relationships with subcontractors and vendors are key to being a successful general contractor.

📈Qualify subcontractor bids based on construction documents, current building codes, and project requirements.

💡Have a thorough understanding of each division of work and make sure there are no gaps in the estimate.

📝Use an internal spreadsheet to estimate costs, account for general conditions, and ensure all components are included.

What is the role of a general contractor in estimating construction projects?

—A general contractor's role is to put together the entire project package, understand project requirements, and build a reliable team of subcontractors.

How do I qualify subcontractor bids?

—Qualify subcontractor bids by reviewing construction documents, current building codes, and project requirements to ensure all aspects are covered.

What is the importance of building reliable relationships with subcontractors and vendors?

—Building reliable relationships ensures reliable bids, better pricing, and smoother project management. It also helps in covering unforeseen costs and maintaining the quality of work.

How can I estimate costs accurately?

—Use an internal spreadsheet or estimating software to estimate costs based on each division of work. Account for general conditions, specific project requirements, and potential contingencies.

What are some common challenges in estimating construction projects?

—Common challenges include understanding the specific needs of each project, keeping up with current building codes, and accounting for potential changes during the project. It is also important to avoid gaps in the estimate and ensure all components are accounted for.

00:00A general contractor focuses on putting together the entire project package rather than doing detailed take-offs for every item.

01:31Qualify subcontractor bids based on construction documents, current building codes, and project requirements.

02:27Building reliable relationships with subcontractors and vendors ensures reliable bids, better pricing, and smoother project management.

05:59Estimate costs accurately by using an internal spreadsheet or estimating software and accounting for each division of work and project requirements.

08:11Understand the challenges of estimating construction projects, including the specific needs of each project, keeping up with building codes, and accounting for potential changes.