In construction project teams, who is primarily responsible for estimating costs?

• A. Architects
• B. Cost Estimators
• C. Civil Engineers
• D. Construction Managers

Answer: (B)

Estimating costs is a specialized activity that requires gathering quantities, applying unit costs, and integrating market data to build a project budget or bid. Cost estimators review drawings and specifications, perform quantity takeoffs, and use supplier, subcontractor, and pricing data to prepare a detailed estimate. They calculate direct costs like materials, labor, and equipment, plus indirect costs such as overhead, allowances, and contingency, to present a baseline for bidding and budgeting. While architects focus on design, civil engineers ensure structural feasibility and safety, and construction managers coordinate on-site work and cost control, none have the primary responsibility for building the estimate itself. That distinct responsibility belongs to the cost estimators.