Answers before you upload.

Frequently asked questions

What file formats do you accept?

We work from digital plans. PDF drawing sets are the most common, and we also accept CAD files in DWG and DXF formats. Specifications, addenda, geotechnical reports and finish schedules are helpful when they are available. If your documents are in another format, ask and we will confirm whether we can use them.

What do you need from me to provide a quote?

Send the current drawing set, any specifications or addenda, and a short description of the scope you need, such as a full project estimate, specific trades, or quantities only. Let us know your bid date and whether you want pricing included. With that information, we can review the documents and send a project-specific quote.

How long does an estimate take?

Turnaround depends on the size and complexity of the project, the number of trades involved and the completeness of the documents. We confirm the delivery date with your quote, before any work begins, so you can plan around your bid schedule.

How is your service priced?

Each project is quoted individually based on its scope, the trades requested, document complexity and the deliverable you need. We do not publish fixed prices because two projects of similar size can require very different levels of effort. You receive the quote before we start, and nothing is billed without your approval.

What will I receive?

Most deliverables include an Excel workbook with quantities organized by CSI division or trade, plus a PDF summary of scope, assumptions, inclusions and exclusions. When useful, we also provide marked-up drawings that show what was measured. The format can be adjusted to fit your bid process.

What happens if the drawings change or an addendum is issued?

Tell us as soon as revised drawings or addenda are released. We review the changes and let you know how they affect the scope of the takeoff. Small clarifications are often handled within the original work, while larger revisions may be quoted separately. Either way, we confirm before proceeding.

Are my plans kept confidential?

Yes. Your drawings and project information are used only to prepare your estimate. We do not share them with other clients, subcontractors or suppliers, and we are glad to sign a reasonable non-disclosure agreement if your project requires one.

Do you handle both residential and commercial projects?

Yes. We prepare estimates for residential work such as custom homes, remodels and multifamily buildings, as well as commercial and industrial projects such as tenant improvements, retail, medical office and warehouse buildings.

Can subcontractors order a takeoff for a single trade?

Yes. Many of our clients are subcontractors who need quantities for their trade only, such as concrete, drywall, electrical or roofing. We focus the takeoff on your scope and organize it the way you price your work.

Do your estimates include labor and material costs?

That depends on what you need. Some clients want quantities only and apply their own pricing. Others want a priced estimate that includes material and labor. We confirm the scope with your quote, and any pricing basis we use is documented in the assumptions so you can check it against your local market.

Which states do you serve?

We work remotely from digital plans, so we can support projects anywhere in the United States. We do not have local offices or field staff; everything is handled through document upload, review and electronic delivery.

Are the sample estimates and articles real client projects?

No. Sample estimates and articles are illustrative and show the format and approach of our work. They are not completed client projects. Contact us for current details on scope, quotes and availability.