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Construction Cost Overview​

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Construction Cost Overview

Construction Total Cost

A successful construction project includes a total project cost, construction (hard cost), and pre-construction (soft cost). Each budget serves a unique purpose and covers specific costs associated with the project’s lifecycle. The total project cost includes all project costs, from the beginning planning stages to the ultimate completion and handover. It comprises both hard costs (direct construction costs) and soft costs (indirect project management, administration, and permitting expenses).

Construction Cost (Hard Cost)

The construction (hard cost) budget is dedicated to the expenses directly associated with the physical construction process. It covers the costs of materials, labor, equipment, subcontractors, and other tangible aspects that make up the project’s structure.

Pre-Construction Cost (Soft Cost)

The pre-construction (soft cost) covers the expenses incurred prior to the start of actual construction. Fees for professional services, planning and permits, legal consultations, finance, site preparation, and other administrative tasks required for the project’s commencement.

Key Differences

The key difference between these three budgets is the type of spending they cover. The entire project budget includes all project costs, whereas the construction (hard cost) budget concentrates on the physical construction phase, and the pre-construction (soft cost) budget includes all expenses before construction begins.

What could cause the project price to increase?

What could cause the project price to increase?

Our pricing is based on the approved scope, visible site conditions, and standard assumptions. While we work hard to identify cost drivers early during the feasibility and preconstruction phases, certain factors may affect the final price as the project moves forward.

Common reasons costs may increase include:

1) Site & existing conditions

  • Grading, drainage, soil, or groundwater conditions

  • Demolition of existing structures, slabs, or pools

  • Hidden issues discovered during construction (e.g., rot, termite damage, unpermitted work)

  • Limited site access, hillside lots, or restricted staging areas

2) Utilities & infrastructure

  • Long or complex utility runs (water, gas, electrical, sewer)

  • Required service or panel upgrades

  • Additional trenching or sewer work

  • Septic systems or drainage improvements (if applicable)

3) Code, permits & engineering

  • Structural or seismic upgrades required by engineering

  • Fire sprinklers or other code-mandated systems

  • Energy code (Title 24) compliance impacts

  • Additional inspections or plan-check requirements

4) Design, selections & upgrades

  • Design changes after plans or permits are issued

  • Material and finish upgrades beyond allowances

  • Custom details or higher-end construction standards

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5) Logistics & schedule 

  • Client-supplied materials requiring coordination or special handling

  • Long lead-time materials or expedited delivery

  • Schedule acceleration or restricted work hours

Our approach: We proactively review these factors during feasibility, clearly define assumptions, and communicate any changes through written Change Orders—so you stay informed and in control throughout the process.

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