What does a construction estimate cost in New York?
Pricing depends on project size, complexity and turnaround. We do not publish a flat rate because a Syracuse multifamily takeoff and a Manhattan high-rise estimate require different levels of detail. Send your drawings and we will provide a quote before starting. Most projects return in 24–48 hours, and rush turnaround is available. We work from complete plan sets and specifications to give you an accurate quote. For a detailed proposal, use our get an estimate page.
How long does a takeoff take?
Most projects return in 24–48 hours from receipt of complete drawings. Larger or complex projects may take longer, and we will confirm the schedule when we quote. Rush turnaround is available for an additional fee. We deliver Excel and PDF files organized by CSI MasterFormat division, with marked-up plan sets. If you need a faster turnaround, let us know your bid date when you send the documents. For more on our process, see our construction takeoff services.
Do you adjust pricing for different ZIP codes in New York?
Yes. Material and labor pricing is adjusted by ZIP code, so a project in Buffalo does not carry the same unit costs as one in Manhattan. We use RSMeans data and local supplier quotes where available. This matters because labor rates, material availability and delivery costs vary widely across the state. For example, concrete and steel prices in NYC reflect higher transportation and handling costs. If you have specific supplier quotes, we can incorporate them. Our blueprint takeoff and estimating service uses the same ZIP-code-adjusted approach.
What software do you use for takeoffs?
We use Bluebeam Revu for plan markup and quantity measurement, PlanSwift for digital takeoff, and RSMeans data for cost pricing. These tools let us measure accurately and organize quantities by CSI division. We deliver Excel and PDF files with marked-up drawings so you can review every line. For specialized trades like electrical or drywall, we use the same software with trade-specific assemblies. You can see examples in our electrical estimating services and drywall estimating and takeoff pages.
Can you estimate public work that requires prevailing wage?
Yes. We separate prevailing-wage scopes from private scopes so you can see the labor burden clearly. We do not provide wage determinations, but we price to the rates you provide or that are specified in the project documents. Confirm the applicable wage determination with the contracting agency before bidding. Public work in New York often requires certified payroll and specific labor classifications. We organize our estimate to match your bid form. For more on public work, see our outsource estimating services.
Do you handle NYC-specific logistics like sidewalk sheds and crane permits?
We flag these as separate line items in the estimate, but we do not obtain permits. You or your expeditor will need to secure them. We can include allowances for sidewalk sheds, crane permits and after-hours work based on your project location and scope. Confirm current permit fees with the NYC Department of Buildings. For projects in dense areas, we also separate material hoisting and rehandling. Our dedicated construction estimator service can help you plan these logistics.
What do you need from me to start an estimate?
Send the complete plan set, specifications, and any available geotechnical or structural reports. If you have a bid date or target budget, include that. We will review the documents and confirm scope before starting. For foundation-heavy projects, the geotechnical report is the first input we request. If you have addenda or RFI responses, include those as well. For a smooth start, use our blueprint takeoff and estimating service to upload your files.
How do you handle waste factors?
We apply waste factors typical for each material and installation method. For example, drywall waste is higher on complex layouts, and concrete waste depends on placement method. We state the assumed waste factor in the takeoff so you can adjust it. Waste factors are not hidden in the quantities. For lumber, we account for cuts and defects; for roofing, we include starter and hip/ridge waste. You can see how we handle waste in our lumber takeoff and estimating and roofing estimating services.
Where does the permit data on this page come from?
The permit data comes from the U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey, annual place-level data, for new privately-owned residential units only. It covers 24 of 25 cities we list in New York for 2025, with 3,635 total units. It does not include commercial or infrastructure permits. For commercial activity, consult local building department records. This data helps you understand residential construction trends, but it is not a measure of total construction activity. For estimating your project, use our construction takeoff services.
Do you estimate renovations and additions?
Yes. We estimate renovations and additions from existing drawings and site information. We take off selective demolition, new construction and code upgrades separately. For older buildings, we note potential hazardous material abatement as a separate line. Confirm the presence of asbestos or lead with a licensed inspector before bidding. We also account for phasing and temporary protections. For renovation takeoffs, our blueprint takeoff and estimating service can handle existing conditions.