Budgets | Vendors

BUDGETS

Over the course of my two decades in the construction industry the most frequently asked question I receive is “How much should I budget for this?” Unfortunately, there’s no easy formula, given that all projects have unique circumstances that should be taken into account to ensure all costs are covered. But the good news is that providing as much information as possible at the outset of the project can go a long way towards helping you avoid unwelcome surprises down the road. 

For example, budgeting for new sidewalks seems like a simple request, but there are several variables other than length and width that can impact cost.  Answering questions like the ones below will help your contractors help you build a more informed budget:

1. Do I have adequate access to get to the area or will I need a pump truck?
2. Am I up against a building where pedestrians will be?
3. Will I be crossing any creeks, streams etc.?
4. How many ADA crossings will there be?  Will I need ADA warning pads? (Note: working through ADA compliance early in any project is critically important to help avoid future lawsuits, incidents or fines)
5. When does the project need to be completed?

For any project, the more information we receive, the more accurate our estimate will be. This includes providing access to plans and/or the site itself. 

Also, keep in mind that while we do our best to provide an accurate estimate, costs for construction materials are constantly in flux and may change in the months between setting the budget and beginning the work. Contractors often account for this or for other potential changes in the project (scope, timing, etc.) by including some extra room in the initial budget to avoid overruns in the actual job.

Remember, the most important ingredient to any budget is information - the more information we have, the better the budget will be.  Providing the right information at the outset of the project helps us determine the best course of action for your project, from cost to completion.

                                                                                                                                Colby Craton