The latest BCIS review of construction resource costs indicates that costs have generally risen between 1.5% to 3.5% over the last 12 months, however the picture is not the same across all trades
The costs of woodwork, plumbing and mechanical and electrical installations have risen by an average of 6% in the same period. This highlights the importance of using the most up-to-date datasets to ensure that your estimates are accurate.
The BCIS construction resource datasets have been completely revised and updated for 2019 to include all recent changes to wage rates, plant and materials prices, revisions to adjustment factors and a range of new items. Pricing information is based on Q2 2018. They are published in the following datasets:
- BCIS Comprehensive major works 2019 (36th edition)
- BCIS Comprehensive minor works 2019 (36th edition)
- BCIS Alterations & refurbishment 2019 (24th edition).
The BCIS major works estimating dataset focuses predominantly on large ‘new build’ projects with a value of around £3.5m, reflecting the economies of scale found in these types of scheme. The BCIS minor works estimating dataset focuses on small to medium sized ‘new build’ projects, around £1m in value, reflecting the increase in costs brought about by reduced output, lower discounts, and increased carriage and supervision.
Additions to the datasets
Several items have been added to both datasets, including:
- new items in the roofing, gutter and flashings section
- extended sections on lighting and luminaires
- ductwork specialist rates now include detailed build-ups.
The Alterations & refurbishment dataset focuses on small to medium sized projects, generally within an existing building, and reflects the increase in costs associated with more difficult access and the possibility of working in occupied premises.
New additions to the 2019 dataset include:
- an expanded section on lighting and luminaires and
- new items added to the roofing, gutter and flashings section.
The online version of the 2019 datasets (Schedule of rates online) is easily accessible via computer, netbook or tablet. It allows subscribers to create, save and reuse abstracts for an estimate or schedule of rates and has the option of adjusting rates for location and base date, as well as providing rate breakdowns.
