📄 What Is a Construction Estimate?

A construction estimate is a detailed cost breakdown of your entire project — from foundation to finishing. It includes materials, labor, permits, taxes, contingencies, and other related expenses.

A good estimate should be:

• Clear

• Detailed

• Transparent

• Easy to compare with other quotes

🔍 Main Components of a Construction Estimate

Let’s break it down:

🧱 1. Site Work & Excavation

This includes:

• Soil testing (if required)

• Site clearing

• Leveling the land

• Digging for the foundation

💡 Tip: Ask if this includes debris removal and site preparation.

🏗️ 2. Foundation & Structure

Covers:

• RCC or load-bearing structure costs

• Concrete, cement, steel, shuttering

• Labor charges for foundation work

💡 Tip: Strong foundations can make or break a home. Always check quality of materials here.

🧱 3. Walls, Masonry & Plaster

Includes:

• Bricks or blocks

• Cement mortar

• External and internal plaster

💡 Tip: The type of bricks (fly ash, red, AAC blocks) affects both cost and insulation.

🪟 4. Doors, Windows & Frames

Covers:

• Main doors (wooden, steel, etc.)

• Internal doors

• Window frames and grills

💡 Tip: Ask for brand names or material grades — prices vary widely.

🎨 5. Flooring & Tiling

Includes:

• Tiles (bathroom, kitchen, living area)

• Marble, granite, vitrified tiles

• Skirting and laying charges

💡 Tip: You can usually upgrade or downgrade tile brands as per your budget.

🚿 6. Plumbing & Sanitary Fittings

Covers:

• Water pipelines

• Bathroom fixtures (toilets, taps, basins)

• Kitchen sink and drainage

💡 Tip: Confirm whether brands like Jaquar, Hindware, etc. are included or will cost extra.

💡 7. Electrical Work

Includes:

• Wiring

• Switchboards, MCBs, panels

• Light fittings, fans (if included)

💡 Tip: Always clarify if modular switches or standard switches are quoted.

🪜 8. Painting & Finishing

Covers:

• Putty

• Primer

• Paint (interior/exterior)

💡 Tip: There’s a big cost difference between basic distemper and premium emulsion.

📦 9. Miscellaneous Costs

May include:

• Temporary structures (like site office)

• Safety gear

• Cleaning

💡 Tip: These are often small but necessary expenses.

📑 10. Contingency/Buffer

Usually 5-10% of the total cost is added for unforeseen expenses.

💡 Tip: This is standard practice — and useful in case of price hikes or minor changes.

🛠️ 11. Labor Charges

A major portion of your estimate:

• Masonry, carpentry, electrical, plumbing, painting labor

• Supervision cost (sometimes part of contractor’s fee)

💡 Tip: Ensure the scope of labor work is clear (per sq.ft. or fixed total).

🧾 12. GST, Permits & Other Charges

Includes:

• Goods & Services Tax (GST)

• Government approvals or local authority fees (if included)

💡 Tip: Ask if permits are your responsibility or handled by the builder.

✅ Things to Double-Check in Every Estimate

• Is it a lump sum or item-wise breakdown?

• Are material brands mentioned?

• Is the completion timeline stated?

• Are payment milestones clear?

• What is excluded from the estimate?

🤝 Why Shyam Constructions Gives Transparent Estimates

We provide detailed, easy-to-understand estimates because we believe you deserve clarity and peace of mind before you commit.

No hidden charges.
No vague line items.
Just honest pricing and dependable service.

📞 Ready to Get Started?

Want a free, customized construction estimate for your dream project?
Contact Shyam Constructions today — and let’s build it right, from day one.