Spon's First Stage Estimating Handbook (3^rd Ed.) Spon's Estimating Costs Guides Series

Have you ever had to provide accurate costs for a new supermarket or a pub "just an idea...a ballpark figure..." ?

The earlier a pricing decision has to be made, the more difficult it is to estimate the cost and the more likely the design and the specs are to change. And yet a rough-and-ready estimate is more likely to get set in stone.

Spon's First Stage Estimating Handbook is the only comprehensive and reliable source of first stage estimating costs. Covering the whole spectrum of building costs and a wide range of related M&E work and landscaping work, vital cost data is presented as:

• costs per square metre
• elemental cost analyses
• principal rates
• composite rates.

Compact and clear, Spon's First Stage Estimating Handbook is ideal for those key early meetings with clients. And with additional sections on whole life costing and general information, this is an essential reference for all construction professionals and clients making early judgements on the viability of new projects.

Preface. Introduction 1. Costs per Square Metre 2. Costs per Unit 3. Elemental Costs 4. Composite and Principal Rates 5. Indices and Regional Variations 6. Property Insurance 7. Professional Fees 8. Useful Addresses 9. Estimating Data Index.

Bryan Spain is a consultant quantity surveyor who specialises in building and civil engineering costs. He has worked in local government, private practice and contracting organisations. He has also written over 50 books, mainly on construction costs.