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Estimate documents

Labour and materials estimate.

A labour and materials estimate separates labour hours and material quantities so the contractor can plan resources, order materials, and manage site productivity.

Who this guide is for

Contractors managing their own direct labour, site managers planning work programmes, and quantity surveyors preparing resource-based cost plans.

What the document contains

Each work item is broken down into: labour hours by trade, gang composition and cost per hour, material quantities with unit prices, plant requirements, and total estimated cost. This level of detail helps the contractor understand where money is being spent and manage resources efficiently.

Miniature example

Bricklaying 40 m² of cavity wall:
Labour: 1 bricklayer 80 hrs × £25 = £2,000, 1 labourer 80 hrs × £18 = £1,440
Materials: 3,200 bricks × £0.65 = £2,080, mortar £320, insulation £360
Plant: mixer hire £180
Total: £6,380

Common mistakes

• Using gross labour costs without accounting for overtime, travel time, or CITB levy
• Omitting material waste allowances (typically 5–10% depending on material)
• Not separating labour and materials when the project uses a mix of direct and subcontracted labour