24/03/2026
STOP QUOTING THE WRONG WAY ‼️
We need to correct this in our industry.
Many clients already have a figure in mind before engaging any building professional. They are simply looking for someone whose price fits their figure.
A client calls you and asks, “How much will it cost build 5 bedrooms duplex ?”
Meanwhile, in their mind, they have already concluded that ₦30 million is too high and ₦25 million is the maximum.
The moment you submit ₦35 million, you are tagged as expensive.
Based on what?
What exactly are they comparing?
Most times, there is no technical basis for that decision.
This is one of the reasons professionals are undervalued and misunderstood.
Let’s set the process straight.
THE CORRECT PROCESS FOR PROJECT COSTING
If you want a reliable cost for your project, follow this:
1. Start with an Architect
Develop your architectural drawings based on your requirements.
2. Engage a Structural Engineer
For any multi-level building, proper structural design is non-negotiable.
3. Include MEP Designs
Mechanical and electrical drawings must be prepared to define services properly.
4. Engage a Quantity Surveyor
This is where many people get it wrong.
The Quantity Surveyor will:
• Measure the project properly
• Prepare a Bill of Quantities (BOQ)
• Provide a near-accurate project cost (often up to 90–95% reliability)
• Break down labour and material costs
HOW CONTRACTORS SHOULD PRICE
With a proper BOQ:
• Quantities are already defined
• Material specifications are clearly stated
• Scope is well described
What the contractor does is simple:
They apply their rates and profit margin.
That is how professional pricing works.
You don’t compare random figures.
You compare:
• Rates applied by different contractors
• Understanding of scope
• Ex*****on methodology
Then you align that with the benchmark already provided by the Quantity Surveyor.
“Someone built a 5-bedroom duplex for ₦100 million, so mine should be cheaper.”
That logic is flawed.
Projects differ in:
• Size and layout
• Structural requirements
• Finishing specifications
• Material quality
There is no fixed market price for buildings.
Construction is not like pricing goods in the market where you move from one seller to another looking for the cheapest option.
You must have a technical basis for your cost.
Your brain is not a database of construction pricing.
Proper costing requires drawings, measurements, and professional input.
Before calling a contractor:
Get a Quantity Surveyor.
Get a BOQ.
Understand your project cost.
That is the only way to make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.
It is high time you stop giving clients random quotations.
Direct them to engage a Quantity Surveyor to prepare an unpriced Bill of Quantities (BOQ) for you to priced.
Let’s follow the right process, engage us @ SpeckDec
for all your building design and construction services.
