Our Process
How Our Construction Estimating Process Works
- Fixed quote before work starts
- Second-estimator review
- Support until bid day
Overview
A Simple, Transparent Process
Quick answer: Working with Arizona Cost Estimating takes six steps: send your documents, receive a fixed quote and delivery date, approve the quote, let our estimators complete the takeoff and pricing, receive the reviewed estimate in Excel and PDF, and get support for questions and addenda until bid day. Most estimates are delivered within 24 to 48 hours of approval.
We designed our process to remove uncertainty. You know the price and delivery date before any work begins, you can see exactly how every quantity was measured, and you can reach the estimator who built your numbers.
The same process applies whether you need a single-trade takeoff or a full commercial bid. Only the size of the team and the timeline change. For the technical side of how we build and check estimates, see our Estimating Methodology.
What You Can Expect
- Same-day quote during business hours
- No work starts without your approval
- Delivery date confirmed in writing
- Marked-up drawings with every estimate
- Direct access to your estimator
- Fast addenda updates
Get a Fixed Quote Today
Step by Step
Six Steps From Plans to Bid-Ready Estimate
01
Send Your Documents
02
Scope Review
03
Fixed Quote and Delivery Date
04
Takeoff and Pricing
05
Independent Review
06
Delivery and Support
Getting Started
What to Send With Your Request
The more complete your documents, the more accurate and faster your estimate. Helpful items include:
- Complete drawing set: architectural, structural, civil, landscape, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection as applicable
- Specifications or project manual, including finish and equipment schedules
- All addenda issued to date
- Geotechnical report for site work and foundations
- Bid form, instructions and any owner requirements
- The trades or CSI divisions you want priced, and whether you need takeoff only or full pricing
- Your estimate template, labor rates or supplier quotes if you want them used
- Your bid date and preferred delivery date
For remodels and insurance work, clear photos and measurements can replace some drawings. See Renovation Estimating Services and Xactimate Estimating Services.
Timelines
Typical Delivery Times
| Estimate Type | Typical Delivery |
|---|---|
| Single-trade takeoff (residential or small commercial) | Same day to 24 hours |
| Residential estimate (home, addition, remodel) | 24 to 48 hours |
| Small commercial or tenant improvement | 2 to 3 business days |
| Large commercial or multi-trade bid | 3 to 7 business days |
| Industrial, data center or complex MEP | 1 to 2 weeks |
| Addendum update | Usually within 24 hours |
| Change order estimate | 1 to 2 business days |
Deliverables
What You Receive
Excel Workbook
Editable workbook with quantities, unit costs and formulas intact, organized by CSI division or your template.
PDF Summary Report
A clean summary with totals, assumptions, inclusions, exclusions and clarifications.
Marked-Up Drawings
Color-coded PDF drawings showing exactly what was measured and counted.
Scope Sheets
Trade scope definitions for bid leveling, included with bid estimates.
Estimator Support
Answers to your questions and updates for addenda until bid day.
Revisions
Corrections for our errors at no charge. See our Refund and Revision Policy.
FAQs
Process FAQs
How do I start?
Email your plans to ask@arizonacostestimating.com, call 1 (928) 406 4646 or use the form on our Contact Us page.
Do I pay before work starts?
Payment terms are stated in your quote. Most projects are invoiced on delivery; larger or recurring engagements may require a deposit. See our Terms and Conditions.
Can I talk to the estimator?
Yes. You can reach the estimator who prepared your estimate with questions before and after delivery.
What if the drawings change?
Send the addendum or revised sheets and we will update the affected quantities and pricing, usually within 24 hours.
Can you meet a tight bid deadline?
Often, yes. Tell us your deadline when you send the plans and we will confirm whether rush delivery is possible.
Are my documents kept confidential?
Yes. See our Privacy Policy for how we handle project documents.
Keep Exploring
Learn More About Working With Us
Ready for an Accurate Arizona Construction Estimate?
Location & Contact
Our Phoenix Office Serves Contractors Across Arizona
Office Address
413 W Osborn Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85013
Midtown Phoenix, Maricopa County
Phone
Estimating Desk Hours
Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM Arizona Time (MST, no daylight saving)