Using the Calculator

You can find it using our green link below. It is designed for larger screens and so it may not display correctly on mobile phones.

◦ Provides an itemised estimate in as little as 10 minutes
◦ Allows you to save your costing, and update it again later
◦ Allows you to email yourself a 1-page summary

---

Why we created the calculator

Because, for every new home or renovation project, there needs to be a way of estimation the cost. In the old days people used 'square metre rates' but this is so basic, it's not really very useful. My goal was to design a simple but more accurate web based costing calculator that is free for anybody can use. I hope you find it be a quick, yet tangible way of identifying the construction costs associated with your next project.

Ways you can use our calculator:
◦ Ideal for ball-park estimates, even before you have a plan
◦ We often use for Council Costings
◦ Useful to get feedback on how to reduce cost

---

FAQ

I've answered some common questions about our calculator, so check below if you have any queries, or email us using our email form:

---

Q - Do builders use this tool?
A - Yes, actually we know some that do. They say it helps them start a costing conversation with a potential client and say it is accurate enough for this purpose, and before they get their trades to submit individual tenders and prepare a more complete tender.

---

Q - How long did this calculator take to build?
A - This calculator took about 2 years to design, test and code for our website with the help of a programmer.

---

Q - Does the build date alter the cost?
A - Yes, but only if the build date is more than 1 year from the current date. This is our way of including some future increase in cost.

---

Q - Why does excavation cost so much?
A - The calculator makes the assumption that you are doing more than just excavation. That you will need some retaining walls and site drainage, and therefore uses a higher rate than for just excavation alone. The calculator is for a total project estimate and not individual trades.

---

Q - What is the contingency for?
A - There is an automatic and nominal contingency amount included, because the idea of having extra budget set aside for cost overruns is sensible. It's higher on a renovation and lower for a new build.

---

Q - How accurate it the costing?
A - It's just a way of getting a quick estimate. It's not the same as a cost summary report that you pay a Quantity Surveyor to produce, and it doesn't replace the need for these sorts of costings.

---

Q - What is the quality scale?
A - The quality scale is a simple way of adjusting the estimate based on the complexity, level of detailing and quality of materials, for your project. For example houses with high ceilings and more complex roof forms, are a higher quality scale, and higher cost. Instead of using the slider, you can turn on 'Auto' and answer the 12 questions. This will select the quality scale for you.

---

Q - Why is it BETA, what does that mean?
A - In programming terms, BETA software is complete, for use and testing, but may contain a number of known or unknown bugs. I do my best to update and correct this calculator, but I cannot control its use, and we don't take any responsibility for errors that might occur. It is still very useful and free to use 'at your own risk'. If you have concerns about the accuracy, please do not use this calculator, and instead seek a professional QS Costing (Quantity Surveyor) Cost Summary Report instead.

---

Q - Can I retrieve my costing with just the code?
A - Yes, and I think that's the easiest way. You can ignore the name and costing title if you want. Our summary shows your code.