789 Inner Lane, Holy park,
California, USA
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?
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
.
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.