Hidden Costs Add Up!

 

  
  When estimating, there are checklist to follow that help ensure that you do not miss a beat.
 
Okay- I’ve got the lumber priced, the labor added up, the paint prices checked, etc. Many things within a job can seem obvious. But- there are some hidden costs lurking in the job that can come as a surprise to you- and your customer.

Here are some things to look out for, especially in remodeling and renovation projects:

Scheduling Problems
Whenever extra time is involved, extra expenses can also appear. Remember to estimate for any time delays you may encounter, such as product not arriving on time.

Security
Your project should be secured each evening. Sometimes lugging power tools back and forth can be a hassle. If the homeowner does not have a security system in place, you may want to consider looking at a job box, small shed or chains and locks, so items can be secured and at the site when you return the next day. They can be purchased or rented. This may not be a cost for a specific job, but one that you may want to invest in for your company as a whole.

Demolition
If you have to demolish a structure, it could be more expensive than you first thought because doing so without damaging neighboring buildings can be difficult.

Hazardous Waste Removal
The cost of removing items can grow if hazardous waste is exposed- asbestos, etc. during any demolition.

Protecting Property
Protecting existing structures during any demolition is important, so know ahead of time everything that could be affected so you can be prepared to protect everything properly.

Salvage/Recycling
Many companies specialize in cleaning up and recycling construction products and by-products. This could be a sales point to your customers, especially anyone who has an environmental concern. You may want to get cost-estimates for this type of service ahead of time.

Debris Removal
This will have a lot to do with your homeowner. Perhaps they are not too worried about debris during the project. But, it this is a larger job, perhaps they will want bigger measure taken, and more frequently, to remove the debris. This could come up unexpectedly after you begin and a pile starts to form, causing an unexpected cost. Keep this question in mind ahead of time when doing initial estimate.

Storage
This somewhat goes along with security, but can differ. Perhaps there is not room to store some of your materials at the site. Such as, if it is in a city. You may need to rent storage space somewhere. Or, as discussed in the security bullet, rent a shed.

Project Site “Workshop”
There may be some small things you need to do, not to the structure itself (millwork, cabinets), so a workshop could be ideal. You may need to build an area at the site to do so, with a workbench, etc. This could incur some extra cost as well.