WeRenovate.com
Home of The Renovation Co-op
A Toronto-Based Organization
Estimating Procedures
Introduction
Renovation Management System
5-Step Estimating Process
Having trouble
understanding your
Contractor's Estimate?
The truth is... most general contractors (even the better ones) are unable to devote too much of their time describing (in detail) the actual steps involved in the work required to complete your project within their initial estimate.
As many General Contracting projects (Basement Renovations, Additions, Kitchen Renovations, etc.) involve numerous tasks, along with multiple types of sub-trades, etc, most contractors will only provide you with an estimate that is nothing more than a quick summary of the work (Scope of Work) and give you a "guesstimated" price.
Unfortunately, this can become a disappointing and frustrating method of estimating for both the contractor and the homeowner,
As most General Contractor-level projects are individually unique, the lack of detail in the original estimate can cause problems for both parties upon the final version of the estimate.
In fact, there are a number of ruthless contractors who will insist upon a deposit and signature based on the original estimate, and then later add a lot of "hidden extras" that may have been discussed, but were not included in your signed contract.
Renovation Co-op Estimating Procedures Overview
The Renovation Co-op follows a structured, 5-step Estimating Process designed to ensure accuracy, transparency, and efficiency for both Architectural and General Contracting projects.
Regardless of the project type (Architectural-related or General Contracting-related) , the following steps are applied:
Architectural Related Estimates
• Initial Site Examination: Performed by a Senior-Level BCIN, who conducts an on-site review and consults with the client.
Purpose: To generate a Project Assessment Report that supports the preparation of a bid request for architectural services such as drawings, permit applications, and design planning.
General Contracting Estimates
• Initial Site Examination: Conducted by a Senior-Level Member Contractor who reviews the project scope and site conditions.
Purpose: To prepare a detailed Project Assessment Report that informs the bid request sent to qualified member-contractors.
1. Project Assessment Report – Prepared by the appropriate senior-level specialist who performs the Initial Site Examination.
2. Submission of Bid Request:
Based on the Project Assessment Report, our Bid Preparation Team enters detailed scope data into the system. Bid Requests are sent to member-specialists who regularly perform the specific type and level of architectural work required.
3. Review of Bid Responses – Bids are reviewed and compared. Specialists must guarantee their prices for 30 days.
4. Request for Subsidy Funds – An automatic request is submitted to the Canadian Renovation Funding Program for any applicable rebates or grants.
5. Online Estimate Review – A Co-op Service Rep walks the client through the estimate, including scope of work and final contract price after subsidies and credits.
