What does an MEP estimator do?

An MEP Cost Estimator is an expert who analyses expenditures of construction projects related to MEP(Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing). Their main goal is to provide actual and definitive cost estimates required for any infrastructure. Whether costs related to materials, labour, overheads, or other resources. For this to be done faultlessly an estimator must have a strong knowledge of MEP systems and their components. If an estimator is experienced it will also help in reducing unwanted expenses. On the other hand, If an estimator is not qualified then we can say that it will surely become a problem in the future. As they are vital for the success of any construction project.

As we know MEP is a very vast domain. There are a lot of MEP services involved for any type of structure. Every single one of them has its importance as it is a basic foundation in any construction plan. MEP Cost Estimating includes many services whether it is residential or commercial and each of them has different requirements. It consists of many components and every component is related to each other. We all know it all comes under three major components and each one of them has its divisions. Each division has its significance.

Now let us discuss the three major components and how an MEP cost estimator applies his expertise on each one of them.

ARE YOU CURIOUS ABOUT WHAT AN MEP ESTIMATOR DOES? DIVE INTO OUR BLOG AND DISCOVER THE VITAL ROLE THEY PLAY IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS!

Qualifications and Experience

MEP cost estimators should be qualified and have proper licensing. Only then are they able to undertake this complex task. They are professionals who have had extensive training to gain knowledge about mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. These systems overlap to a great extent. You cannot have one without the presence of another. In order to calculate the cost of the expenses required to install and maintain them, one needs to have extensive knowledge about them. MEP estimators are the experts in their work. They have tons of experience that helps them in problem-solving.

Following are the systems that fall under the care of the MEP Estimator:

Mechanical System Estimation

As we know the MEP mechanical sector is mostly related to the following:

Heating
Ventilation
Air conditioning

The importance of this system cannot be abandoned as it provides temperature stability in any weather conditions. This system also contains the control of environmental factors such as human control and operating machines. MEP contractors calculate the cost that is required to install and maintain these systems.

These three factors (HVAC) are essential for any project to be successful. But nowadays that is not the case. It increases and goes beyond the traditional elements mentioned above. Now in mechanical, movement within the building is also an aspect that MEP cost estimators have to consider such as lifts and escalators.

MEP cost estimators have to be careful in determining the cost of the design and installation of HVAC systems to avoid any expenses.

So mechanical estimates include a budget that comprises all the necessary costs involved in mechanical estimation. The cost analysis of this budget must be accurate. One does not want to spend too much or too little than the required amount.

Electrical System Estimation

This is one of the major components of MEP as many sources of energy can be used as electricity. It is up to the professional estimator to determine which will be the right approach for your construction project. Moreover, the work of electricity needs to be handled with care. There needs to be proper equipment and safety measures in store. The expert will also analyse the cost of this equipment as safety should be a priority.

Estimators have to keep in mind all the factors that may impact electrical work such as environment and geographics. Considering these aspects they will provide you with the best possible plan for your construction scheme.

Electrical work can be costly so MEP cost estimators have to devise a practical approach to the building. It should fall within the budget of the client plus meet their requirements. With the guidance of an MEP estimator, one can make informed decisions for the best outcome of the project.

Plumbing System Estimation

In MEP plumbing is considered to be a technical factor as most of it after completion is underground. Following are some examples of plumbing systems:

System of filtered and unfiltered water
Heating water system
Flow and collection of sewerage, stormwater, and natural gas.

A minor mistake can cost a fortune. An evaluation for all the expenses such as fixtures, fittings, and complex piping routes needs to be spot on. It may be different for every project depending upon the type and need of the building. Plumbing surely differs for what kind of project it is being used i.e. residential, commercial, or industrial. But there are some common elements used in all three of them.

What is the Estimator Duty and Responsibility?

Competency: Again, proper qualification and training are a must for each contractor. He should have the necessary knowledge and information.
To quantify the materials used: He has to accurately identify the number of resources that will be used for the process of MEP Takeoff Services.
To deliver accurate cost estimates: Providing cost estimations with precision is the foremost important duty of MEP estimator
To account for labour cost: Labour is required in almost every construction project. Labour costs must be also included in the budget.
Consider hidden unforeseen expenses: The expertise of the estimator lies in watching out for any hidden expense that might arise.
Analyzing the cost of equipment used: Several pieces of equipment and tools are used at the construction site. They should fall within the budget of the client.
To evaluate future maintenance costs: It falls under the responsibility of the estimator to provide an estimate for these expenses.

READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP? WHETHER YOU’RE AN ASPIRING ESTIMATOR OR A PROJECT MANAGER SEEKING EXPERT MEP ESTIMATION SERVICES!

Conclusion

All in all, Estimation is always as important as any infrastructure. MEP Cost Estimators play a vital role in ensuring the success of any construction project. They offer detailed services which allow clients to navigate through the whole plan. Services that are provided must be transparent, and up-to-date, and proper follow-ups are a must to cater to unwanted expenses. Communication between estimators is vital from the start of the project till the end. Without it chances of failure increase which results in losing the trust of clients. In the end, communication and precision in estimation services are vital for the whole plan.

What does an MEP estimator do?