Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: IrishRugger, Location: NH
Asked on: Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 4:09 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 3:55 am EDT
Question: It has been a long time since I have posted any thing but I have a question for youRecently I submitted a Propsal to a Youth Services Facility that needed CCTV cabing installed.The Facility provided all cabling, cameras, and the rest ov the system. I was invited to bid on cable pulling only. They were re-using some cable that they had pulled out of another one of their facilities and some new cable that they were providing.We had 24 separate cameras to pull to each one having it's own dedicated run as specified by the Administrator, No daisy chaining. Of course each run was different lengths and different degrees of difficulty. After inspecting the facility and determining cable routes I figured a total 4200 feet of cable would have to be pulled. I counted 18 penetrations through 18 inches of brick & block, some areas would need some surface raceway to conceal cable. And because of the nature of the facility that being a detention center access to areas is an issue as far as time is concerned. With all of that being said my labor came to just under $4800.00 and I figured about $200.00 in surface race way for those obscure ares where it would be needed. Suffice to say I thought I was giving them a fair price.This is an old building with some drop ceiings and some finished plaster and mesh. some access holes needed to be created. Even in the dropped ceiling areas are jamed with other electrical fire alarm Heat/ Cooling ect.I was told after two weeks of the submittal that I was $3500.00 higher than an similar project done two years ago at another facility they own in a town over 200 miles away.As you can predict my question do you think my price is too high based on what information I gave you in the post?
Based on the information you have provided, it is difficult to determine whether your price is too high without knowing the specifics of the other project referenced. However, here are some factors to consider: Project Scope
The project involved pulling 4200 feet of cable through 18 penetrations, creating access holes, and installing surface raceways. This is a significant amount of work, especially in an older building with limited access.
Materials
You were not responsible for providing cabling, cameras, or other system components, which can represent a substantial cost in other projects.
Labor Rates
Labor rates can vary widely depending on the location, skill level, and availability of contractors. It's important to ensure that your rates are competitive for your area and experience level.
Contingency
It's Prudent to include a contingency in your pricing to account for unforeseen circumstances or changes in the project scope.
Overhead and Profit
You need to factor in your overhead expenses, such as insurance, rent, and equipment, as well as your desired profit margin.
Based on these factors, it is possible that your price of $4800.00 for labor and $200.00 for surface raceways may be reasonable.
However, it's important to note that the other project referenced may have had different circumstances, such as: A smaller scope of work (e.g., fewer cameras, penetrations, or cable footage) More favorable site conditions (e.g., easier access, less obstacles) A different labor market with lower ratesIf you are concerned that your price may be too high, you could try the following
Talk to the Administrator
Request a meeting with the Administrator to discuss your pricing in more detail and explain the factors that contributed to your estimate.
Review the Other Project
If possible, try to obtain more information about the other project, including the scope of work, site conditions, and labor rates.*
Adjust Your Pricing: If necessary, consider revising your pricing to make it more competitive, while still ensuring that you are adequately compensated for your labor.Ultimately, it's up to you to decide whether your price is too high or not. By carefully considering the factors above and gathering more information, you can make an informed decision. Flag for review