You have a landscape package with irrigation, hardscape, planting, and lighting. You need quantities you can price and a scope you can defend at bid time. We take off the drawings and specs the way a landscaping estimator would: by zone, by assembly, by CSI section. The result is a line-item takeoff in Excel and PDF, with marked-up plan sets so you can see where every number came from.
- Deliverable
- Excel estimate + marked-up PDF plans
- Organized by
- CSI MasterFormat section
- Turnaround
- 24–48 hours for most projects
- Pricing
- ZIP-code-adjusted material and labor pricing
- Software
- Bluebeam Revu, PlanSwift, RSMeans data
As a landscaping estimating company, we build each takeoff from the drawings. Planting is measured under Section 32 90 00 planting and Section 32 93 00 plants, with Section 32 91 00 planting preparation for soil amendment and Section 32 98 00 planting mulch for mulch depth. Irrigation runs are taken off under Section 32 84 00 irrigation, with Section 32 88 00 irrigation piping, Section 32 89 00 irrigation sprinklers, Section 32 87 00 irrigation valves, and Section 32 86 00 irrigation controls broken out separately. Turf is measured under Section 32 92 00 turf and grasses. Hardscape follows Section 32 12 16 asphalt paving, Section 32 13 13 concrete paving, Section 32 14 00 unit paving, and Section 32 31 00 fences and gates. Site work that supports the landscape is taken off under Section 31 23 00 excavation and fill and Section 31 25 00 erosion and sedimentation control.
We work from your PDF plans, specs, and addenda. If you are also carrying sitework, we can link the landscape takeoff to our Sitework Estimating Services so subgrade prep and utilities are not double-counted. For projects with extensive paving, we coordinate with our Asphalt & Paving Estimating team. If your project includes significant grading, our Surface Grading Estimating page covers that scope. We also provide Texas estimating and California estimating with local pricing adjustments.
Turnaround is 24–48 hours for most projects. Rush service is available. Pricing is ZIP-code-adjusted for material and labor, using RSMeans data and current supplier quotes. We use Bluebeam Revu and PlanSwift for takeoff, and deliver in CSI MasterFormat Division 32 format, with Division 26 56 00 for exterior lighting and Division 31 20 00 for earth moving when those scopes are part of the package. For scopes that extend beyond the planting beds, we also take off Section 32 30 00 site improvements, Section 32 80 00 irrigation, Section 32 94 00 planting accessories, Section 32 95 00 planting irrigation, Section 32 96 00 planting soil, Section 32 97 00 planting fertilizer, Section 32 99 00 planting maintenance, Section 32 01 90 operation and maintenance of planting, Section 32 39 13 manufactured planters, Section 32 18 00 athletic and recreational surfacing, Section 32 71 00 constructed wetlands, Section 32 72 00 water bodies, and Section 33 40 00 storm drainage. When the package reaches the property line, we price Section 33 10 00 water utilities and Section 33 30 00 sanitary sewerage, and for waterfront sites Section 33 80 00 waterway and marine construction.
What our landscaping estimating services cover
We measure from the landscape plans, irrigation design, and hardscape details. Each line item is tied to a spec section and a sheet reference. We include ancillary items that are often missed, like sleeves under paving and tree staking. Exclusions are listed so you can carry them elsewhere.
Pavement Removal
Measure existing pavement removal by SF or SY, including haul-off and disposal fees.
SF · SYSubgrade Prep
Calculate subgrade preparation, compaction, and proof-rolling for paving and planting areas.
SF · CYAggregate Base
Take off aggregate base course by depth and type, with compaction and waste factors.
CY · SFUnit Pavers
Count concrete unit pavers, poured concrete flatwork, and natural stone by area and thickness.
SFRetaining Walls
Measure segmental retaining walls by face area and cap length, including base and drainage.
SF · LFCurbs & Edging
Take off curbs, edging, and mow strips by linear foot, with excavation and bedding.
LFTopsoil & Finish Grade
Calculate topsoil placement and finish grade by CY or SF at specified depth.
CY · SFPlanting
Count trees by caliper, shrubs by container size, and groundcover by area, with mulch.
EA · SFWhat every landscaping estimating takeoff includes
- Pavement removal and haul-off by SF or SY
- Subgrade preparation and compaction for paving and planting
- Aggregate base course by depth and type
- Concrete unit pavers, poured concrete flatwork, and natural stone
- Segmental retaining walls by face area and cap length
- Curbs, edging, and mow strips by LF
- Topsoil placement and finish grade by CY or SF at depth
- Sod, seed, hydroseed, and mulch beds by SF
- Trees by caliper, shrubs by container size, and groundcover
- Irrigation mainline, laterals, drip tubing, and emitters
- Valves, backflow preventer, controller, and valve boxes
- Landscape lighting fixtures, transformers, and wiring runs
How a landscaping estimator takes off a bid package
- Set up sheets and zonesWe load the landscape plans, hardscape details, and irrigation design into Bluebeam Revu. Sheets are split into zones: planting beds, turf areas, paving, and irrigation zones. We overlay the plant schedule and irrigation legend so every symbol is accounted for. Each zone is tagged with a sheet reference and detail number. We also check for revisions and addenda to ensure we are working from the latest set.
- Measure hardscape and flatworkPaving areas are measured by SF, with deductions for planters and openings. Base course is taken off by depth from the typical section. Curbs, edging, and retaining walls are measured by LF, with face area for wall block. We note expansion joints, edge restraints, and drainage gaps. For retaining walls, we measure wall face area and cap length separately. We also count steps, ramps, and other vertical elements.
- Count planting and irrigationTrees and shrubs are counted by size class from the plant schedule. Mulch beds are measured at specified depth. Irrigation mainline and laterals are measured by LF, with fittings counted by size. Valves, emitters, and drip tubing are counted from the irrigation plan. We check for sleeves under paving and coordinate with hardscape. We also verify that the irrigation design matches the available water pressure and flow.
- Price with ZIP-adjusted dataMaterial and labor pricing is adjusted by ZIP code using RSMeans data and current supplier quotes. We separate material, labor, and equipment. Waste factors are applied as separate lines so you can adjust them. Sales tax is added where applicable. For planting, we check current grower availability and note any long-lead items. For irrigation, we verify pipe and fitting prices with local suppliers.
- Review and deliverA senior estimator checks quantities against the drawings and specs. We mark up the plan set with takeoff highlights and deliver Excel and PDF files organized by CSI MasterFormat Division 32. A summary sheet shows totals by section. We also include a list of assumptions and exclusions so you know what is not covered. If you have questions, we offer a review call to walk through the takeoff.
- Post-delivery supportAfter delivery, we remain available to answer questions and make adjustments. If the scope changes or you receive addenda, we can update the takeoff quickly. We also offer to review subcontractor quotes against our takeoff to help you identify gaps or discrepancies. This support is included for 30 days after delivery. For ongoing projects, we can provide updated takeoffs as needed.
What we need from you
- Landscape plansPDFs of the landscape, irrigation, and hardscape sheets. Include all revisions and addenda.
- SpecificationsDivision 32 specifications with section numbers. Include plant list and irrigation details.
- Plant scheduleSpecies, size, and quantity. Note any substitutions or alternates.
- Irrigation designPlan showing mainline, laterals, valves, and point of connection. Include hydraulic calculations if available.
- Hardscape detailsTypical sections for paving, base course, and retaining walls. Include edge restraint and joint details.
- Bid date and zip codeSo we can prioritize and apply the correct pricing adjustment.
Sample landscape estimate for contractors: takeoff format
This is how your takeoff will look. Each line ties to a CSI section and a sheet reference.
| Section | Line item | Qty | Unit | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 32 13 00 | Concrete flatwork, 4 in thick, broom finish | 8,200 | SF | L-101 |
| 32 14 00 | Concrete unit pavers, 2-3/8 in, on sand | 18,400 | SF | L-102 |
| 32 16 00 | Concrete curb, 6 in x 18 in | 1,240 | LF | C-201 |
| 32 90 00 | Sod, tall fescue, 1 in depth | 22,500 | SF | L-103 |
| 32 93 00 | Tree, 2 in caliper, balled and burlapped | 48 | EA | L-104 |
| 32 84 00 | Irrigation mainline, 2 in PVC, Schedule 40 | 1,240 | LF | I-101 |
| 32 84 00 | Drip tubing, 0.5 in, 12 in spacing | 6,800 | LF | I-102 |
| 26 56 00 | LED landscape fixture, 12W, 3000K | 86 | EA | E-101 |
| 32 92 00 | Hydroseed, temporary erosion control | 12,000 | SF | L-105 |
| 32 31 00 | Ornamental fence, 4 ft high, steel | 320 | LF | F-101 |
Units of measure in landscape cost estimating
Landscape quantities are not all square feet. We measure each assembly in the unit that matches how it is bought and installed.
| Item | Unit | How it's measured |
|---|---|---|
| Pavers, concrete flatwork, sod, mulch | SF | Measured from plan dimensions, not scaled. Deduct openings over 10 SF. |
| Curbs, edging, retaining wall cap, pipe | LF | Measured along centerline. Include radius lengths and end treatments. |
| Trees, shrubs, bollards, fixtures | EA | Counted by size class and species. Verify against plant schedule. |
| Topsoil, aggregate base, excavation | CY | Volume from area times depth. Apply swell factor for export. |
| Boulders, riprap, decomposed granite | TON | Weight from volume times unit weight. Include equipment for placement. |
| Irrigation design values | GPM, PSI | From hydraulic calculations. Verify against available static pressure. |
| Water features, pump sizing | GAL | From reservoir volume and turnover rate. |
Worked example: takeoff of a drip irrigation zone
This example walks through one drip irrigation zone from a residential landscape plan. Dimensions are illustrative and not from a real project. The plan shows a 40 ft by 30 ft planting bed served by a single drip zone. The point of connection is 50 ft from the zone valve, and the valve box is 5 ft from the bed edge. The mainline is 1-1/4 in PVC, and the lateral is 1/2 in drip tubing with 12 in emitter spacing. The bed is planted with shrubs on 3 ft centers.
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Measure the bed area. 40 ft × 30 ft = 1,200 SF.
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Calculate drip tubing length. For 12 in spacing, tubing runs are typically spaced 12 in apart. Number of runs = 30 ft ÷ 1 ft = 30 runs. Length per run = 40 ft. Total tubing = 30 × 40 = 1,200 LF. Add 10% for connections and waste = 1,320 LF. (Waste is a separate line item.)
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Count emitters. At 12 in spacing, emitters per run = 40 ft ÷ 1 ft = 40. Total emitters = 30 × 40 = 1,200 EA. If tubing has integral emitters, count is included in tubing LF; if separate, add 1,200 EA.
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Measure mainline. Distance from point of connection to valve = 50 ft. Add 5 ft from valve to bed edge = 55 ft. Add 10% for fittings and waste = 60.5 LF. Round to 61 LF of 1-1/4 in PVC.
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Trenching for mainline. Trench depth per spec: 12 in. Trench width: 6 in. Volume = 61 LF × 0.5 ft × 1 ft = 30.5 CF. Convert to CY: 30.5 ÷ 27 = 1.13 CY. Add 20% for bedding and backfill = 1.36 CY. (Bedding sand and backfill are separate line items.)
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Valves and boxes. One zone valve, one valve box, one quick coupler, one flush assembly. Count each as 1 EA.
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Backflow preventer. One RPZ assembly at point of connection. Count as 1 EA. Include permit inspection.
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Sleeves under paving. If the mainline crosses a walk, add sleeve length: 5 ft of 3 in PVC sleeve. Count as 5 LF.
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Plant count. Shrubs on 3 ft centers in 1,200 SF: area per shrub = 3 ft × 3 ft = 9 SF. Number of shrubs = 1,200 ÷ 9 = 133.3, round to 134 EA. Add 5% for replacements = 141 EA. (Waste separate.)
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Mulch. Bed area 1,200 SF at 2 in depth. Volume = 1,200 × (2/12) = 200 CF. Convert to CY: 200 ÷ 27 = 7.41 CY. Add 10% for settlement = 8.15 CY.
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Summary of quantities. Drip tubing: 1,320 LF; emitters: 1,200 EA; mainline: 61 LF; trench excavation: 1.36 CY; valves: 1 EA; valve box: 1 EA; backflow: 1 EA; sleeve: 5 LF; shrubs: 141 EA; mulch: 8.15 CY.
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Pricing. Apply ZIP-adjusted material and labor rates. Waste factors are separate lines. Sales tax added where applicable.
The takeoff is then organized under CSI MasterFormat Division 32 84 00 (Planting Irrigation) and 32 93 00 (Plants). Each line references the irrigation plan and planting plan sheet numbers.
What drives landscaping cost estimating
Relative impact on a typical estimate for this trade, based on estimator judgment. Select a bar for details.
Paving system
Concrete unit pavers on sand vs on concrete base changes both material and labor. Base course depth, edge restraint, and joint sand are separate line items. Natural stone and decomposed granite have different waste factors and placement methods. For example, pavers on a concrete base require a mortar setting bed and may need reinforcement, adding cost. We measure each layer separately and apply appropriate waste factors.
Concrete unit pavers on sand vs on concrete base changes both material and labor. Base course depth, edge restraint, and joint sand are separate line items. Natural stone and decomposed granite have different waste factors and placement methods. For example, pavers on a concrete base require a mortar setting bed and may need reinforcement, adding cost. We measure each layer separately and apply appropriate waste factors.
Number of zones, mainline size, and point of connection location drive trenching and backflow requirements. Drip vs spray vs rotor affects pipe and emitter counts. Sleeves under paving add LF and must be coordinated with hardscape. A larger mainline may require thicker pipe and more fittings. Backflow preventers vary by jurisdiction and can add significant cost. We count each component and note any special requirements.
15-gal vs 24-in box vs 2-in caliper trees have different costs and lead times. Grower availability can affect the bid. Tree staking, root barrier, and tree well details are often missed. Larger trees require equipment for placement, adding to labor. Some species may be unavailable locally, requiring shipping costs. We check current market prices and note any long-lead items.
Import or export of topsoil and aggregate depends on existing soil conditions. Restricted access increases labor for placement. Boulders and riprap require equipment for placement by TON. If soil is unsuitable for planting, amendments or replacement may be needed. We measure haul distances and equipment requirements based on site logistics.
Landscape lighting requires transformers, wiring, and fixtures. Voltage drop calculations may dictate wire size. Fixture count and type affect cost. We count each fixture, measure wiring runs, and include transformers and controls. Coordination with the electrical contractor is noted. If lighting is specified under Division 26, we include it as a separate section.
Pumps, filters, and liners are priced by size and flow rate. Excavation and concrete work add cost. Water features require plumbing and electrical connections. We measure reservoir volume, pump size, and piping. Maintenance access and equipment pads are also considered. These items are often overlooked in early budgets.
Silt fence, inlet protection, and stabilization measures are required by SWPPP. Permits may require specific BMPs. We include erosion control items as separate line items. Inspection and maintenance costs are noted. These requirements vary by jurisdiction and must be confirmed with the local authority.
Common scope gaps in landscape bid estimating
These are the items we see missed most often. We catch them by cross-checking plans, specs, and details.
- Tree and shrub counts by size class priced as one blended rate. The plant schedule lists 15-gal, 24-in box, and 2-in caliper separately. We count each size class and price accordingly.
- Mulch and topsoil measured at compacted depth instead of loose volume. Specs call for loose depth. We apply the swell factor to avoid under-ordering.
- Irrigation mainline trenching, bedding, and backfill not carried separately from pipe material. The irrigation details show trench dimensions. We measure CY of excavation and backfill.
- Backflow preventer, DCDA or RPZ assembly and its permit inspection. The irrigation plan shows the point of connection. We include the assembly and note the inspection requirement.
- Sleeves under walks, drives, and curbs for future lighting or irrigation. These are shown on the hardscape details. We count LF and include them in the takeoff.
- Valve box, quick coupler, and drip flush assembly counts. The irrigation legend lists these. We count each EA and verify against the plan.
- Tree staking, guying, root barrier, and tree well details. These are in the planting details. We include them as separate line items.
- Landscape lighting transformers, wiring, and voltage drop calculations. These are often shown on electrical sheets. We coordinate with Division 26 and include as separate line items.
- Erosion control measures such as silt fence, inlet protection, and stabilization. These are required by SWPPP and are often missing from landscape bids. We include them based on site conditions and local requirements.
Hardscape and paving systems: what changes the takeoff
The paving system you specify drives base course, edge restraint, and waste factors. This table shows how each system affects the takeoff.
| System | Base course | Edge restraint | Waste factor (typical) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete unit pavers on sand | 4–6 in compacted aggregate | Plastic or aluminum edge | 5–8% |
| Concrete unit pavers on concrete base | 4 in concrete slab | Concrete curb or steel edge | 3–5% |
| Poured concrete flatwork | 4–6 in aggregate base | Forms only | 5–10% |
| Natural stone (flagstone) | 4 in aggregate base | Mortar or stone edge | 10–15% |
| Decomposed granite | 4 in aggregate base | Steel or concrete edge | 10–12% |
| Synthetic turf | 3–4 in aggregate base | Aluminum or concrete edge | 5–7% |
| Segmental retaining wall | 6–12 in aggregate base | None (gravity) | 3–5% |
Codes and standards that affect landscape takeoffs
Model codes
Landscape work is governed by the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) for structural elements like retaining walls, the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) for exterior lighting power allowances, the National Electrical Code (NEC) for landscape lighting, and the International Plumbing Code (IPC) or Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) for irrigation backflow prevention. The NEC limits voltage drop on lighting circuits, which can increase wire size and cost. The IPC requires backflow assemblies on irrigation systems, adding a line item. These codes change quantities: for example, a retaining wall over 4 ft may require engineering and a permit, adding design and inspection costs.
Industry standards
ASTM standards apply to materials: ASTM C936 for concrete unit pavers, ASTM C33 for aggregate, ASTM D1785 for PVC pipe, and ASTM D2665 for PVC fittings. ACI 318 covers concrete retaining walls. The Irrigation Association publishes design standards for irrigation systems, including hydraulic calculations. These standards affect the takeoff because they specify material grades, testing, and installation methods. For example, ASTM C936 requires pavers to meet dimensional tolerances, which may affect waste factors. ASTM D1785 specifies pipe wall thickness, which determines material cost.
Specification sections
The estimator must read Division 32 sections: 32 13 00 Concrete Paving, 32 14 00 Unit Paving, 32 16 00 Curbs and Gutters, 32 80 00 Irrigation, 32 84 00 Planting Irrigation, 32 90 00 Planting, 32 92 00 Turf and Grasses, 32 93 00 Plants, and 32 30 00 Site Improvements. Also Division 26 56 00 Exterior Lighting and Division 31 20 00 Earth Moving. These sections specify submittals, testing, and installation requirements that change cost. For instance, a spec requiring a mock-up for pavers adds labor and material. A spec requiring root barrier for trees adds a line item.
Local amendments
Adopted code editions and amendments vary by jurisdiction. Some states adopt the IBC with amendments that affect retaining wall height triggers or irrigation permit requirements. Local water authorities may restrict irrigation system types or require separate meters. Always confirm the adopted code edition and local amendments with the local building department. This affects permit costs, inspection requirements, and allowable materials, which in turn change the takeoff.
Who uses outsourced landscape estimating
General contractors
You need a complete landscape number to plug into your bid. Our takeoff gives you line items you can mark up and a scope you can compare against subcontractor quotes.
Landscape subcontractors
You bid multiple projects a week. Our takeoff saves you the nights and weekends of measuring, so you can bid more work and focus on pricing strategy.
Developers and owners
You need a budget before design is complete. We can take off schematic plans and provide a cost range with clear assumptions, so you can plan funding.
Architects
You specify the landscape package. Our takeoff verifies that your details are buildable and that quantities match your intent, helping you catch omissions before bid.