PROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOR EXPECTED OF THE COST ESTIMATOR
- Ethics: The practice of
construction estimating is a highly technical and professional
discipline. It also involves abiding by certain standards of
ethical conduct and moral judgment that go beyond the technical
aspects of the discipline. Estimators are often the most familiar
with the complete project. They must exercise sound moral and
professional judgment at all times when preparing the project
estimate. Estimators sometime receive pressure from other members
of the construction team to make expedient short-term decisions
that can result in an unsound bid. Resistance to this type of
pressure is a part of the estimator's job. Examples of expedient
behavior litter the history of inaccurate construction estimating.
Deficient estimates can also cause strife and litigation between
members of the construction team.
- Integrity: Estimators are
expected to use standards of confidentiality in a manner at least
equal to that of other professional societies. The estimator shall
keep in strictest confidence information received from outside
sources. The practice, commonly called "bid peddling", is a breach
of ethics and is condemned by the ASPE and that of other societies
and construction organizations.
- Judgment: Judgment is a skill
obtained by estimators through proper training and extensive
experience. Estimators should always use sound judgment and common
sense when preparing estimates. Proper use of judgment may mean the
difference between profit and loss for the company or client.
- Attitude: Estimators should
approach each estimate with a professional attitude and examine in
thorough detail all areas of the work. They will set aside specific
times each day for entry of estimate quantities and data without
interruption. Total mental concentration is a basic requirement for
preparing accurate cost estimates.
- Thoroughness: An estimator will
allow enough time to research and become familiar with the
background and details of the project and then promptly complete
the quantity survey. They will review the various aspects of the
project with the other disciplines involved. The estimator with the
most thorough knowledge of a project best serves the owner and
project team, and has the best competitive advantage when preparing
a bid.
This is what is expected of estimators and we strive to live up
to these essential ethics here at Charter Estimating. Our staff is made up
of very experienced educated professionals with the same goal in
mind. The most Accurate on-time electrical estimating services that
we can provide. Give us a call today or send your plans to the link
provided and get your free quote today!