Written by RCG Consultants
Most electrical contractors price their own work until the tender pipeline outgrows the time available. Outsourcing the estimating is one way to keep pricing work without adding permanent staff.
When it makes sense
Outsourcing tends to suit a contractor with several tenders closing at once, a project type they do not price often, a busy period, or an estimator who is away. It also helps when the take-off alone would take days you would rather spend on site or on client relationships.
What to prepare
Send the complete drawings and specification, the closing date, and any addenda. Tell the estimator your labour rates, preferred suppliers and subcontractors, and what you want back, so the result matches how you normally price.
What you get back
You should receive a take-off and a priced estimate with clear inclusions and exclusions, in a format you can review and change. Ask for the assumptions to be listed, so you can see what the price is based on.
Keep control of the price
The final price stays your decision. Review the assumptions, check the validity period of every supplier quote against the tender, and add your own allowances for risk and margin before you submit.
Need a hand with a tender?
RCG Consultants provides electrical estimating, take-offs and tender and bid submission support, Australia-wide and in New Zealand. Contact us on (07) 3558 1449 or tenders@rcgconsultants.com.au.