Architects & Building Designers

At Total Estimating Services, we’ve become a trusted partner to architects for providing early-stage cost planning, particularly during the sketch design phase, through our tailored Indicative Cost Estimates.



Our approach gives clients a clear budget framework early in the process, supported by a trade-like breakdown even from preliminary designs. We also offer strategic advice on how to achieve cost-efficiency through different design options, construction methods, or material selections — helping architects guide design development with cost in mind.

As the project progresses into design development, we provide a Preliminary Costed Bill of Quantities. This document acts as a valuable reality check, offering a detailed breakdown of individual cost drivers and instilling confidence in the project's financial framework. It's especially useful for conversations with builders, consultants, specialist trades, and financiers.

Our team brings decades of hands-on experience, allowing us to deliver reliable cost guidance without needing full structural documentation on most projects. Where a schedule of finishes is not yet available, we consult with the designer to identify one of three standard levels of finish based on the client's vision. This creates a solid baseline, which can be refined once the first draft is complete.

To provide clarity and transparency from the outset, we offer fixed-price fee proposals. These come with a sample estimate, so you can see exactly how we present data, what’s included, and the value you can expect.

For our builder clients, whether it be a Preliminary Costed Bill of Quantities or Tender - Costed Bill of Quantities we ensure accurate take offs in the logical sequence of the build process priced clearly with current market rates.

• Prepare accurate tender submissions using a structured cost breakdown that aligns with industry standards.
• Create cost-plus contracts with confidence, ensuring transparency in pricing for both materials and labor.
• Strengthen client trust by providing a detailed cost framework that helps mitigate disputes.
• Improve resource planning and financial forecasting by having a clear picture of expected costs from the outset.
• Every fee proposal is accompanied with a detailed example for the benefit of the builder and or client.

Our Costed Bills of Quantities provides owners with clarity and control over their project’s budget, helping you to make informed financial decisions, it allows you:

• Understand overall costs with a detailed breakdown of materials, labor, and finishes.
• Take control of key selections such as fixtures, fittings, and finishes by knowing the exact cost of each item.
• Negotiate more effectively with builders by understanding how a building price is structured. We recommend requesting Builders Prices in the same Bill Summary Breakdown format we provide, to ensure a fair comparison between a preferred builders' estimate and ours.
• Secure financing more easily with a transparent and well-structured cost estimate.