Demo Estimating Test Answers

✅ Instructor Answer Key: Demolition Estimating Final Test

Module 1: Introduction to Demolition Estimating

1. The scope defines: what is being demolished, how it’s being demolished (methods and equipment), and why it’s being removed. It’s a comprehensive outline of the physical work involved, the sequencing, and legal or environmental considerations.
2. Selective demolition involves removing only parts of a building and usually requires manual labor and precise planning. Total demolition removes the entire structure and relies heavily on equipment. Selective demolition usually requires more manual labor due to its precision.
3. OSHA 1926 Subpart T outlines federal safety requirements for demolition projects, including the need for engineering surveys, structural bracing, debris handling, and hazard control. Compliance ensures worker safety and protects against legal penalties.
4. Examples include demolition permits and hazardous material abatement clearances. These are essential for legal compliance and to avoid costly stop-work orders or penalties.
5. Inaccurate takeoffs lead to incorrect material, labor, and disposal estimates, causing budget overruns, lost bids, or unsafe project planning.

Module 2: Reading Plans & Understanding Scope

6. Demolition drawings use dashed lines, shading, hatching, or “demo” callouts to show what to remove. A legend often defines these symbols, and each trade (MEP, architectural, structural) may have its own.
7. Structural elements like beams, columns, or load-bearing walls must remain to ensure stability. Removing them without proper reinforcement can lead to collapse or costly repairs.
8. Disconnection plans show which utilities (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) must be shut off or capped before demolition. These prevent safety hazards like electrocution or gas leaks.
9. Site investigations verify actual field conditions, material types, and structural conditions. They also reveal discrepancies not shown in drawings and help estimate labor accurately.
10. Demolition sequencing avoids structural failure by determining the safest order of removal. For example, removing non-structural finishes first, followed by shoring walls before major structural cuts.

Module 3: Takeoffs & Quantity Measurements

11. Digital takeoffs are faster, more accurate, and easier to document. They allow quick changes, layering by material, and save visual proof of measurements.
12. Interior drywall is measured by square footage of walls and ceilings. Multiply length × height, and subtract openings.
13. Ductwork is typically measured in linear feet or pounds (especially for salvage value). Square footage is also used for surface area.
14. Drywall, ceiling tile, carpet, and wood trim are common interior materials needing removal. Each has its own labor rate and disposal method.
15. Organizing takeoffs by room/system makes the estimate easier to review, reduces errors, and aligns with project phasing and crew assignments.

Module 4: Labor & Equipment

16. Union labor includes benefits, training, and regulations that result in higher hourly costs. Non-union labor is usually cheaper but may lack formal structure and could require more oversight.
17. Productivity can be slowed by bad weather, tight workspaces, safety concerns, or inexperience. These factors reduce daily output and increase total labor costs.
18. Equipment costs should include rental, fuel, delivery, pickup, operator wages, and maintenance. Separate line items are best for clarity.
19. Manual demolition is ideal in confined spaces or selective work where heavy equipment would damage remaining structures or access is limited.
20. Track your own job history and compare estimated vs. actual labor hours. Create a personal manhour database tailored to your crew’s speed and efficiency.

Module 5: Disposal & Salvage

21. Convert square footage to cubic yards using the formula: (SF × thickness in feet) ÷ 27 = CY. This helps estimate dumpster needs and disposal costs.
22. Dumpster selection depends on debris type (weight/density), available space, local hauling policies, and project duration. Overfilling or choosing the wrong size leads to added charges.
23. Landfills may charge per ton or cubic yard. Misunderstanding this can drastically change disposal fees and make your estimate inaccurate.
24. Recyclable materials include metal, concrete, cardboard, and sometimes wood. Recycling can reduce tipping fees and add sustainability points (e.g., LEED).
25. Resale of items like doors, cabinetry, or steel beams can generate income and reduce disposal needs. Some clients even require salvage plans.

Module 6: Overhead, Profit & Contingency

26. Examples: office rent, software licenses, insurance, admin wages. These must be spread across jobs to keep your company running.
27. Profit is your income, while contingency covers risk. Blending them hides your true margin and makes it harder to track overruns.
28. Examples: porta potties, temporary power, site lighting, or fencing. These are often required by code or the GC’s safety plan.
29. Unknowns (e.g., hidden concrete, abandoned pipes) can delay work or raise cost. Allowances prepare you and show foresight in your bid.
30. Environmental issues like asbestos or lead may trigger hazmat protocols. Including cleanup/remediation costs protects your bottom line and ensures compliance.

Module 7: Final Estimate

31. Labor, materials, equipment, and disposal. These core categories must be itemized to show transparency and accuracy.
32. A clean layout with categories, company branding, and notes improves trust and encourages the client to choose you.
33. Your estimate should match bid documents in scope, terminology, and exclusions. Mismatched bids cause confusion and rejection.
34. One mistake: forgetting to price for utility shutdown or safety fencing. Solution: always use a scope checklist during review.
35. A final review checklist helps catch omissions, math errors, and inconsistencies before submission. Always verify totals.

Module 8: Bidding & Contracts

36. A bid bond ensures the contractor will honor the bid if selected. It protects owners from lowball or fake bids.
37. Public projects require legal compliance (bonds, wage rates, deadlines). Private jobs are more flexible but require relationship-building and fast turnaround.
38. Never start extra work without a signed change order. This protects you from disputes and unpaid work.
39. Closeout includes lien releases, disposal receipts, a walk-through, and your final invoice. Done right, it speeds up payment and builds your reputation.
40. Be transparent, detailed, and confident when explaining your bid. Clients respect clarity and are more likely to award you future work.