CCE101 - Introduction to Cost Estimating

Outline info
Semester
School
Last revision date 2024-01-29 01:10:39.163
Last review date 2024-02-05 00:15:07.658


Subject Title
Introduction to Cost Estimating

Subject Description
This course will explain the process of construction estimating from the contract documents to the methods of measuring material quantities used in general contracting offices. Explore the estimator's position within the business of construction management, both in the contractor and sub-contractor's world. The course will concentrate on "taking off" methods of materials using simple residential and commercial exercises.

Credit Status
One credit towards the Construction Estimator Certificate

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

1. Explain the role of the construction estimator.

2. Describe bidding procedures and bid documents.

3. Measure and quantify items and tasks used in an estimating 'Takeoff'.

4. Perform the essential tasks of a construction estimator.

Essential Employability Skills

    •  Communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in the written, spoken and visual form that fulfils the purpose and meets the needs of the audience.

    •  Respond to written, spoken, or visual messages in a manner that ensures effective communication.

    •  Execute mathematical operations accurately.

    •  Show respect for diverse opinions, values, belief systems, and contributions of others.

    •  Interact with others in groups or teams in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of goals.

    •  Manage the use of time and other resources to complete projects.

    •  Take responsibility for one's own actions, decisions, and consequences.

Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).

Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.

Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.

Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.

By attending live classes, students are consenting to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the class and associated coursework. To learn more about Seneca's privacy practices, visit Privacy Notice.

Prerequisite(s)
Recommended :  CCE100 - Basic Construction Methods and Technology 

Topic Outline

1.0   The Role of Estimating
  1.1    Describe the role of the Estimator/Quantity Surveyor.
  1.2   Identify types of construction estimates.
  1.3   Identify types of construction contracts.
  1.4   Describe bidding requirements and procedures.
  1.5   Implement bids and contract documents.
  1.6   Describe the bidding process.
       
2.0   Bid Specifications, Quantification and Drawings
  2.1   Review Bid Specification Divisions - Division I: General Requirements.
  2.2   Explain specification alternatives and substitutions.
  2.3   Describe methods of estimating.
  2.4   Explain the progression of the estimating process.
  2.5   Describe the differences between Construction Management and Management Contracting within the Bid.
  2.6   Describe various ways of measurement and symbols of drawings.
  2.7   Explain take-off principles.
       
3.0   Site Work and Excavation and Piling Qualification
  3.1   Describe factors in measurement of site-work.
  3.2   Calculate cut and fill - grid method and section method.
  3.3   Measure pilings.
  3.4   Identify and list all items and tasks on a spreadsheet required to develop cost estimating.
       
4.0   Measuring Concrete and Masonry Work
  4.1   Determine measurement of concrete and masonry.
  4.2   Demonstrate take-off of concrete work.
  4.3   Demonstrate take-off of reinforcing steel.
  4.4   Measure and take-off of brick work.
  4.5   Identify and list all items and tasks on a spreadsheet required to develop cost estimating.
       
5.0   Measuring Carpentry
  5.1   Discuss general notes on measurement of carpentry units.
  5.2   Measure doors, frames and window take-off.
  5.3   Measure specialty items.
  5.4   Identify and list all items and tasks on a spreadsheet required to develop cost estimating.
       
6.0   Pricing Generally
  6.1   Describe and explain the pricing process.
  6.2   Explain the influence of job factors and labour management factors on productivity.
  6.3   Convert material prices per package units to prices per takeoff unit.
  6.4   Utilize the three main equipment categories and describe how each is priced in an estimate.
       
7.0   Pricing Sub-Contractors work
  7.1   Describe how sub-trade work is estimated.
  7.2   Explain surety bonds.
  7.3   Describe main features of Bid Depositories.
  7.4   Evaluate the competencies of sub-trades.

Mode of Instruction
Online
This subject is delivered online. This may involve the use of digital materials and/or a text, group discussions, interaction with your instructor and online activities.

Platform: D2L/Brightspace

Prescribed Texts
Fundamentals of Construction Estimating (4rd Edition)
Pratt, David
Delmar Publishers Inc
9781337399395


Reference Material
None

Required Supplies
None

Student Progression and Promotion Policy

http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/student-progression-and-promotion-policy.html

Grading Policyhttp://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/grading-policy.html

A+ 90%  to  100%
A 80%  to  89%
B+ 75%  to  79%
B 70%  to  74%
C+ 65%  to  69%
C 60%  to  64%
D+ 55%  to  59%
D 50%  to  54%
F 0%    to  49% (Not a Pass)
OR
EXC Excellent
SAT Satisfactory
UNSAT Unsatisfactory

For further information, see a copy of the Academic Policy, available online (http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academics-and-student-services.html) or at Seneca's Registrar's Offices. (https://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/registrar.html).



Modes of Evaluation
All the academic policies of the College at which you registered apply. This includes, but is not limited to policies related to grading, supplemental exams, deferred exams and accommodations.

Grading is based on the following marking scheme:

60%   Assignments 
10%   Discussion Forums 
30%   Final Exam

The final exam for this online course is written online. No invigilation is required.  The passing grade for this course is 55%.


MINIMUM PERFORMANCE FOR GRADUATION
No student will be eligible to graduate with a Seneca College certificate or diploma if, in more than 30% of the subjects required for graduation, the student has received a "D" grade.

Assignments
  • Assignments are due on the date given by the instructor.
  • A late penalty of 10% per day is assessed for late assignments, including those not handed in at the beginning of class when due.
  • Material will not be accepted after one week following the due date and/or when the marked material is returned to students, whichever comes first.
  • Assignments are to be prepared by computer.

Absenteeism and Exams
  • Students who are absent for an examination due to an emergency (e.g., motor vehicle accident, hospitalization or death in the family) may provide official documentation within five days of the missed exam and be provided a deferred exam at a later date.  Official documentation includes a death notice or an original doctor’s certificate identifying the date, length of time expected absence and the specific reason for the absence.  Examinations missed without official documentation and approval result in a grade of zero.
  • There are no deferred options for missed tests.  
English Proficiency
  • All written work should demonstrate the following characteristics for clarity and conciseness:
-writing is consistent with the rules of English grammar
-spelling and punctuation are correct
-sentences are structured correctly
-main ideas are supported with specific, relevant examples and reasons
-work flows logically through supporting statements/paragraphs
-work is arranged in correct format (e.g., as a report, essay)
-up to 10% of the final grade may be deducted on all work if the above English competencies are not met.


PLEASE RETAIN THIS SUBJECT OUTLINE FOR POSSIBLE FUTURE USE IN SUPPORT OF CREDIT APPLICATIONS AT OTHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

Approved by: Martin Tame