MEP Estimating Services Designed to Help You Win More Bids
In modern commercial, institutional, and industrial projects, the MEP systems Mechanical (HVAC), Electrical, and Plumbing are the complex, life-supporting arteries of the building. These systems govern comfort, safety, power distribution, and data flow. Accounting for anywhere from $40\%$ to $60\%$ of the total project cost, these scopes are characterized by high material complexity, intricate installation labor, and non-negotiable regulatory compliance (including NEC, ASHRAE, IBC, and UPC).
Relying on generalized cost averages, rushed takeoffs, or unqualified internal estimates for MEP systems is the single fastest way to invite massive change orders, system failures, litigation due to code violations, and crippling project delays. Errors in these divisions are exponentially compounded by the high cost of skilled labor and long lead times for specialty equipment.
At Aris Estimating, we provide Definitive MEP Estimating Services. We employ specialized, trade-specific estimators to deliver granular, assembly-based takeoffs that meticulously quantify every component, fitting, and labor unit. We empower General Contractors, Developers, Engineers, and Specialty Trade Contractors to bid competitively, procure precisely, and guarantee compliant, efficient installation across all relevant divisions
I. The MEP Challenge: Integration, Granularity, and Code Compliance
The primary difficulty in MEP estimating is managing the sheer volume of small, interdependent components and ensuring their seamless coordination within the structural envelope. Our focus is on mitigating the risks inherent in system complexity and regulatory adherence.
| MEP Scope | Primary Cost Driver | Critical Quantification Detail | Regulatory Compliance Risk Mitigated |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical (HVAC) | Ductwork/Piping and Equipment | Linear footage of pipe/duct, precise count of fittings (elbows, transitions), insulation thickness. | ASHRAE/Energy Code (Proper insulation and sizing); Fire Code (Duct fire-rating and dampers). |
| Electrical | Conduit/Cable and Distribution | Linear footage of conduit/wire (by gauge), fitting count, and code-compliant wire fill ratios. | National Electrical Code (NEC) (Load calculation, conductor sizing, and circuit protection). |
| Plumbing | Piping, Fixtures, and Drainage | Linear footage of drain/vent/supply pipe (by material type), fitting count (tees, elbows, reducers, traps). | Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC)/IBC (Proper slope, venting, and fixture sizing). |
II. Specialized Estimating by Trade Division
We treat each MEP trade as a distinct, specialized system, applying industry-specific knowledge, labor units, and code requirements.
A. Mechanical (HVAC – Division 23)
Focuses on heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and fire suppression systems.
- Ductwork Systems: Precise takeoff of sheet metal duct (by gauge and size) and flexible duct, including every required volume damper, fire damper, grille, register, and high-cost transition fitting. We estimate insulation by required thickness (R-value).
- Piping Systems: Quantification of chiller/boiler pipe (by material, e.g., steel, copper, PEX) including all required valves, flanges, gauges, hangers, and specialized fittings.
- Equipment: Itemized costing of high-value, long lead-time equipment such as air handling units (AHUs), variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems, boilers, chillers, and cooling towers, including necessary rigging and setting labor.
B. Electrical (Division 26)
Focuses on power distribution, lighting, and specialized power requirements.
- Conduit and Cable: Linear footage of conduit (accounting for NEC-required fill ratios) and wire (THHN, MC, armored) by gauge. We use assembly-based quantification for outlets and switches, ensuring every box, connector, and device is included.
- Distribution & Switchgear: Accurate sizing and costing of switchgear, transformers, main panels, and sub-panels, ensuring compliance with NEC load requirements and factoring in necessary clearances and dedicated space.
- Specialized Systems: Quantification for fire alarm systems, emergency power generators, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and high-voltage connections.
C. Plumbing (Division 22)
Focuses on water supply, drainage, waste, and vent (DWV) systems.
- Piping: Separate quantification of domestic supply pipe, drainage pipe (PVC/Cast Iron), and vent pipe, including every fitting required (tees, elbows, reducers) by type and size. We factor in vertical and horizontal run complexity.
- Fixtures and Equipment: Itemized counts of toilets, sinks, drains, water heaters, lift stations, and specialized equipment such as reverse osmosis (RO) systems or medical gas piping (if applicable).
- Insulation: Precise takeoff of pipe insulation required for hot water lines and chilled water lines, adhering strictly to energy code standards.
IV. The Aris Estimating Advantage: Integration and Risk Management
The true power of our service is the ability to deliver integrated data that minimizes risk and optimizes procurement across the entire MEP scope.
- Assembly-Based Takeoffs: We quantify materials based on complete assemblies (e.g., a “Typical VAV Box Connection Assembly” includes the unit, duct connection, flexible duct, hanger rod, control wire, and insulation), minimizing the risk of missing hidden ancillary components.
- Labor Unit Verification: Our estimates utilize verifiable, localized labor units for MEP installation (e.g., NECA, MCAA standards) which are critical for bid negotiation and objective management of field productivity.
- 3D Coordination Risk Mitigation: By providing granular takeoffs for all three trades, we help contractors anticipate and manage volume clashes (especially the density of duct, pipe, and conduit in congested ceiling plenums) that frequently lead to costly coordination delays and rework.
- Procurement Optimization: We deliver three distinct, comprehensive Bills of Materials (BOMs) that allow specialty contractors to leverage purchasing power, facilitating efficient Just-In-Time (JIT) delivery for equipment with long lead times.
Partner with Aris Estimating to gain financial certainty over your project’s most complex and expensive systems. We turn detailed MEP designs into predictable, compliant, and profitable budgets.
