What is an estimate in the context of building services engineering?

In building services engineering, an estimate refers to a non-fixed cost approximation for services. This means that it provides a preliminary assessment of the costs associated with the services that will be required for a specific project. Estimates are typically made at an early stage of a project, allowing stakeholders to gauge the expected financial commitment before detailed planning and contracts are finalized.

Estimations take into account various factors, such as labor, materials, equipment, and overhead costs, and are essential for budgeting purposes. Since the actual costs may vary as the project progresses due to changes in scope or unforeseen conditions, estimates are inherently flexible and subject to adjustment.

The other choices focus on fixed prices, detailed timelines, or specific calculations, which are more definitive and represent stages further along in the project lifecycle. While a fixed price for work represents a binding contract, a detailed project timeline outlines the sequence of tasks, and a calculation of material costs focuses on a specific aspect of the project, they do not encompass the broader and often preliminary nature of an estimate.