Class Notes: Estimation & Costing in Civil
Engineering
1. Definitions & Concepts
Estimation is the process of calculating the probable quantities and cost of different items of work
required in a project, based on drawings, specifications, and current market rates. It serves as a
financial forecast and planning tool.
Objectives of Estimation:
1. To determine the approximate cost of the project.
2. To prepare financial budget and secure funds.
3. To invite and evaluate tenders.
4. To plan material, labor, and resources.
5. To avoid wastage and control expenditure.
2. Types of Estimates
Type Description Example
Preliminary Estimate Prepared in early stage for feasibility. Cost per sq.m. method.
Detailed Estimate Detailed quantities and cost for all items. BOQ for residential house.
Revised Estimate When scope or cost changes. Road project cost escalation.
Supplementary Estimate For additional works beyond original. Extra floors in a building.
Annual Repair Estimate For maintenance works. Painting and plaster repairs.
3. Methods of Quantity Take-off
• Centreline Method: Length is measured along the centreline of walls. Suitable for symmetrical
buildings.
• Long Wall–Short Wall Method: External walls measured as long walls (outer-to-outer), internal
walls as short walls (inner-to-inner).
• Cross-Sectional Method: Quantities calculated from cross-sections of different parts of the
structure, often used for roads, canals, and dams.
4. Rate Analysis Basics
Rate analysis is the process of determining the unit cost of an item of work by considering material
cost, labor cost, equipment, overheads, and profit. It helps in deciding tender rates and controlling
project expenses.
Component Example
Material Cost Cement, sand, bricks
Labor Cost Masons, helpers, carpenters
Equipment Mixers, scaffolding
Overheads Site supervision, electricity
Contractor's Profit 10–15% of total
5. Practical Example: Small Residential Building BOQ
Item Quantity Unit Rate (■) Amount (■)
Earthwork in excavation 10 cu.m. 150 1500
Brick masonry in walls 40 cu.m. 4500 180000
Cement plastering 200 sq.m. 250 50000
RCC in beams & slabs 15 cu.m. 7000 105000
Flooring (tiles) 100 sq.m. 1200 120000
Painting 250 sq.m. 80 20000
