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Where can I find information on what the average cost should be per square foot to build out a raw space? I have a situation where the slab, deck, exterior walls/door/windows, rooftop units, and main sewer lines are completed and in place, but that’s about it. Since I’m not sure of the exact costs, I need something to help me weigh the general contractor’s (GC) proposal.

Maria Vickers
Operations Manager
Workscape
Marlborough, MA
maria.vickers@workscape.com

James Elledge replies ...

A. Two helpful resources immediately come to mind:

1. RSMeans (www.reedconstructiondata.com/community/815/RSMeans+Cost+data/22347.html) offers several guides to estimate construction costs. Visit the Web site to find the guide most applicable to your specific project.

2. The Building Journal (www.buildingjournal.com) offers an online construction calculator which uses the 2004 Construction Specification Institute’s MasterFormat. This tool allows you to input your own parameters and receive a rough project estimate.

One of these methods should at least give you a quick way to get an idea of whether or not your GC is proposing a realistic price. Better to check before you get the invoice.

Thanks for your question

Jim Elledge

Elledge, facility/office services manager for Dallas, TX-based Summit Alliance Companies, is the recipient of the Distinguished Author Award from the International Facility Management Association (IFMA), is an IFMA Fellow, and is a member of TFM’s Editorial Advisory Board. All questions have been submitted via the “FM Expert Advice” portion of the magazine’s Web site.

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