Estimating Standards & Methodology
Our estimates are built on industry-standard frameworks, verified cost data, and structured quality processes. This page documents the technical foundations we use.
Industry Standards We Follow
CSI MasterFormat 2022
All estimates are organized using the Construction Specifications Institute MasterFormat 2022 division structure. Electrical work is classified under Division 26 (Electrical), Division 27 (Communications), and Division 28 (Electronic Safety and Security). This ensures consistent estimate organization regardless of project type or size.
NECA Manual of Labor Units (MLU)
Labor hour calculations are based on the current edition of the NECA Manual of Labor Units, the standard reference for electrical construction labor productivity. Factors are adjusted for project-specific conditions including building type, geographic location, work access constraints, and schedule compression requirements.
ASPE Code of Ethics
We operate under the American Society of Professional Estimators code of ethics, which requires integrity, objectivity, and confidentiality in all estimating activities. Our estimators adhere to the ASPE standard of practice for preparing, reviewing, and presenting construction cost estimates.
NEC/NFPA 70 Compliance
All estimates account for current National Electrical Code requirements including conduit fill, ampacity adjustments, equipment grounding conductor sizing, overcurrent protection coordination, and GFCI/AFCI requirements. Code compliance is verified during the scope gap analysis phase.
RSMeans Cost Data
Material and equipment costs are cross-referenced against current RSMeans electrical cost data with geographic adjustment factors applied for project location. RSMeans data is used as a benchmark; actual supplier quotes and subcontractor pricing take precedence where available.
Estimate Structure
Each estimate package includes the following standard deliverables:
- Executive Summary — One-page overview with total value, division breakdown, and key assumptions
- Detailed Quantity Takeoff — Line-by-line quantities organized by CSI MasterFormat section with unit prices extended
- Labor Analysis — Labor hours by division, crew composition, productivity factors, and burden calculations
- Material Summary — Material costs by category with supplier quotes, lead times, and escalation provisions
- Subcontractor Scope Matrix — Clearly defined scope boundaries for each trade to eliminate coverage gaps
- Assumptions and Exclusions — Complete list of what is included, what is excluded, and what was assumed
- Alternate Pricing Schedule — Option-by-option pricing for owner and GC alternates
- Value Engineering Options — Cost-saving alternatives with impact analysis
Cost Categories
| Category | Description | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Materials | Conduit, wire, cable, devices, fixtures, panels, switchgear, transformers, generators | Supplier quotes + RSMeans benchmark |
| Direct Labor | Field installation labor hours including productivity adjustments | NECA MLU + local wage rates |
| Subcontractor Scope | Fire alarm, security, data, testing and commissioning | Qualified subcontractor quotes |
| Equipment | Switchgear, generators, UPS, transformers, MCCs | Factory-authorized distributor quotes |
| Permits & Fees | Electrical permits, utility connection fees, plan review fees | Local jurisdiction fee schedules |
| General Conditions | Project management, temporary power, clean-up, waste disposal | Percentage of direct costs + project duration |
| Escalation Contingency | Market price escalation on long-lead and commodity materials | CFTC data + manufacturer lead times |
Software & Tools
We utilize industry-standard estimating software platforms depending on project requirements. Our estimators are certified in multiple platforms and select the tool that best fits the project complexity, delivery method, and client preference. Core platforms include PlanSwift for digital takeoff, Accubid Pro for detailed electrical estimating, and Bluebeam Revu for document review and measurement verification.