Frequently Asked Questions

Questions, answered straight.

Everything contractors usually ask before outsourcing preconstruction — pricing, turnaround, software, and confidentiality.

How much do construction estimating services cost?

Preconly's estimating starts at around $150 for a single-trade takeoff, with multi-trade estimates typically running $450 to $1,200 and full project estimates $1,200 to $3,500. Every project is quoted at a fixed price before work begins, so there are no hourly surprises. Pricing depends on plan size, complexity, and turnaround.

How long does an estimate take?

Most estimates are delivered within 24 to 48 hours. Because our production runs while US offices are closed, plans sent at the end of your day are often in progress by the next morning. Rush and same-day turnaround is available on many scopes.

What software do you use for takeoffs and drawings?

We work in the tools you already use: PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, On-Screen Takeoff, and STACK for estimating; AutoCAD and Revit for drafting and BIM; and Procore, Buildertrend, Primavera P6, and MS Project for project management support. Deliverables arrive in your preferred format.

Do you work to US standards and codes?

Yes. Everything we produce follows US conventions: CSI MasterFormat structure, imperial units, zip-code-adjusted pricing, and familiarity with US codes and submission requirements. Drawings are drafted to your title block and layer standards.

Is my project information kept confidential?

Yes. Plans, pricing, and project data are handled under NDA on request, stored on access-controlled systems, and never shared or reused. We never publish client work as a portfolio without explicit permission and full redaction.

Can I try your service before committing?

Yes. We recommend sending a scope you have already bid, where you know the right number, so you can judge our accuracy, format, and turnaround on real work before scaling up. Contact us to arrange a sample.

What types of projects do you estimate?

We cover residential, multifamily, commercial, retail, industrial, medical, and government projects — including new construction, renovations, and tenant improvements — across all CSI divisions and trades.

Do you offer dedicated estimators or just per-project work?

Both. You can work per-project with a fixed quote each time, retain a dedicated estimator, drafter, or coordinator on a monthly basis, or use a hybrid of retained hours plus per-project overflow during busy bid seasons. All arrangements are month to month with no long-term contract.

Still have a question?

Tell us about your project and we'll give you a straight answer — and a fixed quote if you need one.

Contact Preconly