CSI Division 33 · Civil & Sitework
Utilities Estimating
Pipe by size, material and depth, with structures, valves and hydrants — the same pipe at twelve feet is a different bid than at four.
- LF
- pipe by size, material and depth
- EA
- structures, valves, hydrants, services
- CY
- bedding, backfill, rock
- LS
- permits, connections, testing
Scope
What we measure.
Measured from
Utility plans, profiles and the civil details
- 01Water Main · 8" DI
- 02Sanitary Sewer · 8" PVC
- 03Storm Drain · 15" RCP
- 04Structures & Manholes
- 05Valves & Hydrants
Where bids go wrong
What other utilities estimates miss.
Trench depth driving the real cost — the same pipe at 12 feet is a different bid than at 4 feet.
Rock, dewatering, sheeting and shoring where the geotechnical report says to expect them.
Bedding, backfill material and compaction testing, specified separately from the pipe.
Connection fees, permits, tapping and utility company coordination.
Sample takeoff
How utilities line items come back.
Every quantity is traceable to the sheet it came from, in the units the trade buys in.
- Quantities traced to the sheet they came from
- Waste and productivity carried as visible lines
- Formulas intact — edit any rate
| CSI | Line item | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| 33 11 00 | Water main — 8" di | 640 LF |
| 33 31 00 | Sanitary sewer — 8" pvc | 580 LF |
| 33 41 00 | Storm drain — 15" rcp | 420 LF |
| 33 05 61 | Structures & manholes | 12 EA |
| 33 12 16 | Valves & hydrants | 8 EA |
FAQ
Utilities Estimating, answered.
Talk to an estimator
Not a salesperson. Same-day answers on working days.
+1 518 974 7222[email protected]Do you measure trench and backfill?
Yes. Trench excavation, bedding and backfill are measured from pipe depth and the trench detail, not just pipe length.
Are structures included?
Yes. Manholes, inlets, valves and hydrants are counted from the plans and profiles.
Can you use our cost book and labor rates?
Yes, and we prefer it. Your historical costs reflect your crews and your suppliers better than any published average. Send the template and we work inside it.
How does pricing work?
Pricing is per project and quoted before any work starts — no retainer, no minimum volume and no subscription.
Do you sign NDAs?
Yes. Drawings, specifications and pricing are treated as confidential by default, and we sign your NDA on request before any documents change hands.
Start a quote
Need utilities numbers for your next bid?
Pick your project type and send the drawings. We confirm the fee and delivery date within the hour on working days.