Got a question about material costs, cost estimating or take-offs? Our panel of experts from RSMeans are here to help!. Search through our archive of answers to previously submitted questions. Or submit a new question using the form below.

Questions About Construction Cost Estimating

• Question:

  I will soon have to appraise a “solid waste transfer station.” Any data in your files I could use and purchase?

  read answer
• Question:

  Have you seen signs of recovery based on the number of new projects advertised? Which state has the most signs of recovery?

  read answer
• Question:

  Please provide definitions, and uses, of the following square footage cost estimating modalities: Renovation, Restoration, and New Construction

  read answer
• Question:

  According to the ADA regulations when installing a handicapped toilet stool there is a minimum of 18 inches from the wall. What is the maximum amount of inches from wall to stool?

  read answer
• Question:

  I was researching the price per square foot costs on building a warehouse and my question is: Does the cost per square foot include the parking lot, curbs, sidwalks, etc.?

  read answer
• Question:

  Is there a resource recommendation you would identify for writing a company SOP for “hard bid” from the context of training individuals who are turning in the bids to those preparing the bid forms?

  read answer
• Question:

  1) Do the line items include mark-ups for the general contractor when the work is performed by another subcontractor? 2) If a subcontractor is performing the work on a RSMeans line item, can the general contractor add line items for general liability insurance, office expenses, overhead and profit (which one) and a Field Superintendent? We are a general contractor that performs government projects.

  read answer
• Question:

  Are there numbers for estimating the average costs associated with computer wiring and electronic systems for new office buildings as a percentage of the total building costs?

  read answer
• Question:

  Our town is trying to construct a storm sewer project. The project was competitively bid and a contractor selected. We are in the process of negotiating a change order with the contractor. He wishes to use “equipment rental rates” from your 2009 Heavy Construction Cost Data book.

  Our question is: does the “operating costs” column in your book (beside the equipment rental column) include/suppose to include the actual man-labor costs to physically operate the piece of equipment listed, or is it supposed to only include other such costs as fuel, lubricants, insurance, etc?

  As with the rest of your book, it is our belief that by adding all adjacent columns, one gets the total cost for that element of work — including labor. Your answer and clarification of this matter would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

  read answer
• Question:

  I live in Ohio and have a house in Jacksonville that needs a roof. I am doing it myself. Where I am you dont need a roof permit. Do you need one in Jacksonville? Also what about a price.

  read answer
Page 1 of 12 pages
 1 2 3 >  Last ›

Ask Your Own Question

Got a question for our experts that's not listed? Submit it using the form below:

Your Contact Information

First Name:
Last Name:
Company Name:
Email:

Your Question

Enter this code: (to prove you're human) Reload Image