What exactly is a takeoff, and is that different from a full estimate?

A takeoff is the measured quantities from your plans, timber, concrete, roofing, and the lot, delivered as a ready-to-use spreadsheet. It's the foundation on which every accurate quote is built. We measure the quantities; you (or your suppliers) apply the pricing.

How fast can I get my takeoff back?

We aim to turn most takeoffs around within approximately 48 hours. Larger or more complex projects may take longer. We'll confirm the expected turnaround based on your project, our current workload and when the plans are received.

Do you cover commercial as well as residential work?

Yep, both residential estimating and commercial estimating, from decks to full commercial fit-outs.

Do I need to buy or learn any software?

No. Send us your plans, we do the rest. No software subscriptions required on your end.

Do you cover the whole of New Zealand?

Yes, we're based in Tauranga, Bay of Plenty, but we work with builders and tradies right across NZ. Plans come to us digitally, so location's never a barrier.

Does My EstiMate work with tradies anywhere in New Zealand, or only around Tauranga?

We work with builders, subcontractors, and tradies all across New Zealand! Since all we need are your digital plans (PDFs), we can handle your takeoffs no matter where your job site or office is located.

What types of projects can My EstiMate help price?

We measure and price both residential and commercial projects, including new home builds, extensions, house renovations, bathroom updates, decks, fencing, commercial fit-outs, and trade-specific work.

Terms of service.

These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern the use of takeoff services provided by My EstiMate ("we", "us", "our") to any person or business ("you", "the client") who sends plans or engages our services. By sending plans to us or engaging our services, you agree to these Terms.

1. Our service.

My EstiMate provides digital takeoff services — the measurement of quantities from construction plans, delivered as a detailed Excel spreadsheet broken down by trade. Our service is limited to measurement only. We do not:

Provide or request supplier quotes
Provide costs or rates for tendering or quoting
Provide design, drawing or markup services

Electrical, mechanical and fire trades are shown as a lump sum on your takeoff sheet and are not itemised — these should be quoted directly by the relevant specialist subcontractor.

2. Requesting a takeoff.

To request a takeoff, send your plans to hello@myestimate.co.nz. Plans must be scalable and readable. We accept hand-drawn sketches and scanned drawings, provided they are legible and measurable. If we're unable to work from the plans provided, we will let you know before proceeding.

We will confirm the scope, price and expected turnaround by email before any work begins.

3. Pricing & payment.

Our standard rate is $65 per hour + GST.
All prices are exclusive of GST.
Payment is required before your completed takeoff is issued, unless you hold an approved account with us.
Payment is to be made via EFT to the details provided at the time of quoting.

4. Turnaround time.

Typical turnaround is 1–5 business days, depending on the size and complexity of the job and current workload. Turnaround times are estimates, not guarantees, and will be confirmed at the time of quoting.

5. Revisions.

Your rate includes one revision or correction to a completed takeoff, provided the request relates to an error in the original scope of work. Additional revisions, or changes resulting from updated or amended plans, may be charged as a new job.

6. Refunds & discounts.

We do not offer refunds once a takeoff has been issued. We do not offer discounts on our standard rate, other than by separate arrangement for approved regular clients.

7. Accuracy & liability.

We take care to measure accurately based on the plans provided. However:

The accuracy of any takeoff depends entirely on the accuracy, scale and legibility of the plans supplied to us.
My EstiMate accepts no liability for any errors or omissions in a completed takeoff, including any loss, cost or damage arising from reliance on it.
It is your responsibility to check all quantities before using them to prepare a quote, place a material order, or submit a tender.

Nothing in these Terms is intended to exclude, restrict or modify any rights you may have under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 or Fair Trading Act 1986 that cannot lawfully be excluded. Where our services are acquired for business purposes, the parties agree the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 does not apply, to the extent permitted by law.

8. Communication.

All communication regarding your job — including quotes, questions, updates and revision requests — is handled by email only. We do not offer phone or text-based support.

9. Confidentiality.

Plans and project information you provide are treated as commercially sensitive and are used solely for the purpose of completing your takeoff. We do not share your plans or project details with third parties, except where required to deliver the service (e.g. cloud storage or email providers) or by law.

10. Changes to these terms.

We may update these Terms from time to time. The current version will always be available on this page. Continued use of our services after changes are posted constitutes acceptance of the updated Terms.

11. Governing law.

These Terms are governed by the laws of New Zealand, and any disputes will be subject to the jurisdiction of the New Zealand courts.

12. Contact.

Questions about these Terms can be sent to hello@myestimate.co.nz