Construction Estimator vs Quantity Surveyor – What's the Difference?
05/10/2026
Construction estimators and quantity surveyors both work with construction costs, but their roles can be different. A construction estimator is generally focused on determining what it will cost to actually construct a project. This may involve: Measuring quantities from drawings Preparing Bills of Quantities Calculating material requirements Calculating labour requirements Applying supplier and subcontractor rates Preparing tender estimates Production...
What Drawings Do I Need for a Construction Estimate?
28/09/2026
The more complete the construction documentation, the more detailed and reliable the estimate can generally be. For a residential construction estimate, we would normally request as much of the following information as is available: Architectural drawings Site plan Floor plans Elevations Sections Roof plan Window and door schedules Structural engineering drawings Foundation and slab details Energy report Electrical plans Hydraulic or...
How Much Does a Construction Estimate Cost?
21/09/2026
The cost of having a professional construction estimate prepared depends on the size, complexity and level of detail required for the project. A small residential renovation will generally require considerably less estimating work than a multi-unit development or detailed custom home. Factors that can affect the estimating fee include: Project size Number of dwellings Complexity of the design Quality of the drawings Availability of specifications Number of...
What Is a Bill of Quantities (BOQ)?
18/09/2026
A Bill of Quantities, commonly known as a BOQ, is a detailed breakdown of the materials, labour and construction items required to complete a building project. Rather than relying on a broad square-metre allowance, a detailed BOQ breaks the project down into individual components and cost centres. Depending on the project, this may include: Site works and excavation Concrete and foundations Structural framing Roofing Windows and doors Brickwork and cladding Plumbing...