Practice Test Geeks(CCS) Certified Construction Specifier Practice Test
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Cost Estimation Flashcards

7 cards from real CCS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

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  1. The AACE International classification system for cost estimates defines a Class 1 estimate as having an expected accuracy range of approximately:

    Answer: -3% to +5%

    AACE Class 1 estimates, prepared from complete bid documents, carry the highest accuracy at approximately -3% to +5% of final cost.

  2. Which procurement method typically produces the lowest initial bid prices by maximizing competitive bidding?

    Answer: Competitive sealed bidding (design-bid-build)

    Competitive sealed bidding with multiple qualified bidders creates the most competitive pricing environment because contractors know they must submit the lowest compliant price to win.

  3. A 'bid bond' in construction procurement serves to:

    Answer: Guarantee the bidder will enter into the contract and provide required performance and payment bonds if awarded

    A bid bond protects the owner from financial loss if the low bidder refuses to execute the contract or fails to provide required bonds after award.

  4. When comparing two building system alternatives using life-cycle cost analysis, which cost elements should be included beyond initial construction cost?

    Answer: Energy consumption, maintenance, repair, replacement, and disposal/salvage costs over the analysis period

    A complete life-cycle cost analysis captures all ownership costs — operations, energy, maintenance, replacement cycles, and end-of-life salvage — to enable true total-cost comparison.

  5. A specifier reviewing a trade contractor's schedule of values notices that the first pay application item 'mobilization' is priced at 25% of the contract value. This is MOST likely an example of:

    Answer: Front-loading (unbalanced schedule of values), which distorts cash flow in the contractor's favor

    Front-loading inflates early line items so the contractor receives more cash early relative to work in place, creating owner cash-flow risk.

  6. Which specification document type provides the owner with a detailed breakdown of unit costs for potential changes in scope during construction?

    Answer: Schedule of values with unit price schedule

    A unit price schedule, often submitted with the bid, establishes pre-negotiated rates for added or deleted quantities, streamlining change order pricing.

  7. In construction cost estimating, 'equipment cost' for heavy earthwork operations refers to:

    Answer: The ownership or rental cost of construction machinery such as excavators and scrapers used on-site

    Equipment cost in earthwork estimating covers the ownership (depreciation, interest, insurance) or rental rates for large construction machines needed to perform the work.