Your estimating questions
Practical answers before you request a construction estimate or quantity take-off for a New Zealand project.
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What is the difference between a take-off and an estimate?
A take-off measures quantities from the supplied documents. An estimate adds an agreed pricing basis and relevant allowances. Confirm whether you need quantities only, material pricing, labour pricing or a fuller construction cost breakdown.
How much does an estimate cost?
The fee depends on the size of the document set, trades, design complexity, required detail and deadline. Request a scoped proposal. We do not publish one-size-fits-all per-square-metre rates because they can misrepresent individual projects.
Can I send plans with my request?
Yes. The quote form accepts PDF, JPG and PNG files, up to three files, 5 MB each and 10 MB combined. For a larger drawing set, tell us in your message and we will arrange a suitable transfer method.
How long will the estimate take?
Delivery is agreed after we review the scope and available documents. Include your tender deadline and allow time for your own review, clarifications and supplier quotations.
What if the drawings change?
Supply the revision register and highlight the changes. We can discuss the affected quantities and scope of an update; later revisions are not automatically included in the original fee.
Does the estimate include GST?
The agreed estimate should state whether amounts include or exclude GST. The website planner lets you choose a separate GST calculation; it is a planning aid using your own rates, not a project quote.
Can you guarantee a winning tender?
No estimate can guarantee a tender outcome or final construction cost. Procurement, site conditions, scope changes and commercial decisions affect the result. A clear estimate helps you review these factors and make an informed submission.