Estimating glossary

Local estimate — for one type of work/object (the main document). Object estimate — combines local ones per object. Consolidated estimate calculation — total construction cost by chapters 1–12 (preparation, main works, equipment, temporary structures, contingency). Separate cost-type estimates — overheads for renovation/commissioning.

Base-index — base-year rates × actualization indices. Resource — current prices for materials/machinery/labor without indices (more accurate, needs up-to-date price data). Resource-index — a combination. For publicly funded projects the method is set by DBN/DSTU standards.

Direct costs = materials + payroll + machinery operation. Overhead — organization, management, servicing: % of payroll. Profit — % of payroll. Then contingency and VAT. A 'price per m²' with no breakdown is a red flag: demand a bill of quantities and a resource sheet.

Bill of quantities — list and volumes of works (estimate basis). Hidden works act — closes works that will become invisible. KB-2/KB-3 — work acceptance act and cost certificate forms. Defect act — defect list for demolition/remedy. Written amendment — the only legal way to change an estimate.

DC — contract price. Commissioning — startup & adjustment works. Chapter 12 — contingency of the consolidated estimate (usually ≤2%). Technical supervision — client's quality control. Estimate actualization — repricing to current prices at execution date. Chief estimator — lead estimator of the project.