Compare the same scope
A lower proposal may omit equipment, surface repair, utility fees or design work. Align the line items before comparing totals.
07 / Build a range you can explain
Project cost ranges & budget worksheet
Combine your written quotes, scope allowances and contingency into a working budget. Every dollar comes from your inputs, so you can see what is known and what still needs pricing.
Give uncertainty a line
Use a low and high allowance for an unresolved item. Label what evidence will convert it into a fixed amount.
Keep funding separate
A confirmed rebate can reduce net cost later. The upfront funding target should still cover bills due before reimbursement.
Build your own planning range.
Use figures from your written proposals and agency estimates. This worksheet contains no YKCA prices or market-rate claims. Enter 0 for costs already included elsewhere; leave unpriced items blank.
What usually changes the scope?
Electrical & EV charging
Equipment choice, circuit route, wall access, trenching, load management and any required service work can change the scope. Ask whether finish repair and permit closeout are included.
Prepare the electrical inventory →Remodeling & additions
Existing conditions, structural design, finish selections, temporary protection and occupancy needs affect the estimate. Separate selected products from allowances and hidden-condition work.
Explore remodeling →Commercial improvements
Existing tenant conditions, utility capacity, accessibility review, fire systems, work hours and landlord requirements can affect both design and construction costs.
Explore tenant improvements →Request a comparable proposal.
- Written scope, quantities and selected equipment.
- Clear inclusions, exclusions and assumptions.
- Allowances with a definition of what each covers.
- Who pays and coordinates permit and utility charges.
- Inspection, cleanup and finish restoration responsibilities.
- A process for approving changes and their schedule impact.
Make changes reviewable.
When the contracted price or scope changes, CSLB calls for a written change order signed before the changed work. An owner contingency does not authorize additional contractor work by itself.
Read CSLB’s contract guidance ↗Worksheet method
Gross range = entered costs + selected contingency. Net range = gross range − confirmed rebate, with a floor of $0. Financing costs, tax treatment and missing line items are not calculated.
FROM THE YKCA JOURNAL
Make this page useful for your project.
Are the Cost Ranges results YKCA prices?
No. The worksheet adds your own quotes and allowances, then models your reserve and rebate assumptions. Blank cost categories remain unpriced, and the result is not a contractor offer.
