A takeoff you cannot check is only a guess. Before quantities turn into a bid number, every contractor should run a short review. It is the same routine our estimators use on every quantity takeoff we deliver.
1. Confirm the plan set and addenda
Most bid errors start with the wrong drawings. Check the revision date on every sheet and confirm each addendum is included. A missing addendum can change wall types, finishes or even the building footprint.
2. Spot-check three assemblies
Pick one high-value assembly from each major trade, such as footings, exterior walls and roofing. Measure them again by hand. If your numbers land within two to three percent, the takeoff is reliable.
- Concrete: cubic yards of footings and slabs
- Framing or CMU: linear and square feet of walls
- Finishes: drywall, flooring and paint areas
3. Reconcile totals against the plan
Floor area, roof area and wall area should make sense together. When they do not, something was skipped or counted twice. For drywall and finish trades, see our drywall takeoff and painting estimating pages for how we break those quantities out.
4. Price it with real local rates
Clean quantities still need correct labor and material pricing. Our construction cost estimating service prices every line item with zip-code based labor rates, organized by CSI division.
Want a second set of eyes on your next bid? Send us your plans or look at our sample estimates to see exactly what you get.
Send your drawings and get a fixed-fee estimate in 24 to 48 hours.