Preliminary and conceptual construction estimates
Early budgets from schematic and conceptual drawings.
The biggest cost decisions happen before the drawings are finished. We prepare conceptual and schematic estimates from early design documents so owners, designers and builders can see what a project will cost while there's still time to change it.
For renovations and remodels, we price demolition, protection, phasing and the new work together, with assumptions about existing conditions stated clearly so the budget can be updated once the walls are open.
Who it's for
Project types we support
What's included
- Square-foot and assembly-based budgets from schematic drawings
- Updated estimates at design development and CDs
- Value engineering options with cost comparisons
- Remodel estimates with demolition and protection
- Existing-condition assumptions stated clearly
- Phasing and occupied-building costs
What you receive
- Excel estimate organized by CSI division
- Quantities with waste factors
- Unit material, labor and equipment costs
- Summary sheet with cost per square foot
- Colour-coded marked-up plans (PDF)
- Written assumptions, clarifications and exclusions
Our process
Send your plans
Email PDF drawings and specs, or share a Dropbox, Google Drive or bid-portal link. Bid sets, schematic, design development, construction documents and conceptual drawings all work.
Get a fixed quote
We review the set and reply with a price, turnaround time and delivery date for your scope. You approve before any work starts.
NDA and 50% deposit
We sign an NDA so your plans stay private. Work starts on a 50% deposit by card through our secure online checkout. A W-9 is available on request.
Receive your estimate
You get quantities and material and labor pricing in Excel, organized by CSI division, plus marked-up plans. The remaining 50% is due on delivery.
Preliminary & Conceptual Estimating: common questions
Can't find your answer? Call (850) 343-4090 or email info@premiumestimatings.com.
How accurate is a conceptual estimate?
It depends on how far along the design is. We state the design stage and the main assumptions on the summary sheet, and we can update the estimate as drawings develop.
Can you compare design options?
Yes. We price alternate systems or layouts side by side so you can see the cost difference before you commit.
Do you estimate residential remodels?
Yes, for builders and contractors. Most of our work is commercial, but we price residential renovation and additions for contractors who bid them.
What file formats do you accept?
PDF drawings are best. We also work from DWG/DXF files and from plan links on bid portals, Dropbox, Google Drive or OneDrive. Include specifications and addenda if you have them.
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