Certification Guide 02172010

The American Society of Professional Estimators
Certification
Program
Guide
This guide describes in detail the use and
function of the various forms used in the
program. It is intended to assure the integrity
of the program and to impartially maintain the
uniformity and equity of its administration.

Certification Program
2525 Perimeter Place Drive, Ste. 103
Nashville, TN 37214
615-316-9200 Fax: 615-316-9800
An Accredited Program of The Council of Engineering and Specialty Boards

Certification Program Guide
Table of Contents
A. Introduction to the Certification Program .......................................................................................................... 3
B. Body of Knowledge................................................................................................................................................. 5
C. History of Certification Program .......................................................................................................................... 7
D. Code of Ethics ........................................................................................................................................................... 9
E. Certification Program Cycle Schedule............................................................................................................... 13
F. Certification Program Process............................................................................................................................. 15
G. ASPE Certification Methodology …………………………………………………………………………..19
H. ASPE Pass/Fail Determination… ………………………………………………………………………….23
I. Questions and Answers........................................................................................................................................ 25
J. The Technical Paper .............................................................................................................................................. 29
K. General Estimating Knowledge Exam (GEK) .................................................................................................. 69
L. Discipline Specific Test (DST).............................................................................................................................. 79
M. Instruction to Examinee and to Proctor............................................................................................................. 89
N. DST Questions & Problems Guidelines and Developments ......................................................................... 93
O. Certification Renewal Program......................................................................................................................... 109

Renewal Certification Procedures ...................................................................................................... 110
Fellow Certification Renewal ............................................................................................................. 111
Policy for Re-Instatement of CPE ....................................................................................................... 112
Amnesty Policy ..................................................................................................................................... 113
P. Lifetime CPE Status ............................................................................................................................................ 114
Q. Stamp and Seal Program .................................................................................................................................... 115
R. Manual of Standard Estimating Practice (SEP).............................................................................................. 116
S. Appendixes ........................................................................................................................................................... 117

Appendix A – Professional Evaluation Application
Appendix B – Renewal Certification Application
Appendix C – Lifetime CPE Application
Appendix D – Stamp and Seal Application
Appendix E – GEK Study Guide Order Form
Appendix F – SEP Order Form
Appendix G – Estimating Forms
INTRODUCTION TO THE CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
Professional evaluation through Certification is one of the many ways the American Society of
Professional Estimators endeavors to promote the profession and benefit the construction industry.
The founders of the Society sought to include estimators of all types of construction in the
membership of ASPE: residential, heavy, general, specialty trade and conceptual. This array of
highly skilled professionals was the "melting pot" envisioned by the Charter Members of the
American Society of Professional Estimators when they organized in 1956.
With such diversity of backgrounds, the development of programs for both education and
certification of professional estimators has been a demanding and rewarding process. For all the
varied disciplines or levels of detail, the fundamental principles of construction cost estimating
remain universally applicable. Beyond these fundamentals, however, lie the realms of varied
disciplines, which make construction estimating one of the most unique, challenging, and fulfilling
professions an individual may pursue.
During the early years of the Society's existence, long-range programs were formulated to
encourage university-level instruction in construction estimating, not only for the novice student,
but for the experienced estimator as well. A system for evaluating the proficiency of estimators
seeking certification was also envisioned.
ASPE Certification is the highest form of professional recognition an individual estimator can
receive and is being sought by more construction estimators every year. Through it's Certification
Program, the American Society of Professional Estimators recognizes the estimating proficiency
and ethical awareness of the Certified Professional Estimator (CPE).
The Certification Board with the help of Chapter Certification Committees and Regional Governors
administers the Certification Program.
ASPE Certification may be defined as an educational process, which entails an orientation

workshop attendance, submission of an acceptable Professional Evaluation Application and
technical paper, successful completion of written examinations and participation in the Certification
Renewal Program. Each CPE Candidate must earn an affirmative appraisal based on proven ability
and practical experience in the profession.
The Society's efforts in the area of Certification became reality in August 1976 when the National
Certification Committee met in Denver, Colorado, to evaluate the first phase of the Certification
Program. The results were most gratifying. The Committee found a nucleus of competent
estimators in nearly all of the construction disciplines. These professionals became the initial peer
group against which applicants were measured. The peer group's expertise has since been drawn
upon to establish a comprehensive examination system.
Today each estimator seeking certification must meet certain requirements before being permitted
to take the written examinations. Occasionally, experienced estimators will request certification
without examination. This is not permitted under the Society's program rules. Requiring each
candidate to take the examinations ensures the integrity of the Society's program.
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Once recognized as a CPE, you will be expected to keep abreast of current trends and improved
practices in the construction industry. Your conformance with this requirement is measured under
the provisions of the Certification Renewal Program. CPEs subject to certification renewal must
document active participation in the areas of ASPE service: professional, educational and creative
contributions to construction estimating. Among the elements of renewing certification are review
of technical papers, and the contribution of questions and problems to the Certification Test Data
Bank.
As a CPE, you may be requested to volunteer your expertise in advancing the art and
science of estimating. Examples of volunteer contributions:
1. The proctoring of exams in your region.

2. The reading and grading of technical papers.
3. “Beta” testing of new DST exams in your area of expertise.
These examples and other actions contributing to the CPE process can be used in the 30
point accumulation that is required by the Certification Renewal Program.
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The Body of Knowledge
Cost Estimating does not exist in a vacuum. While it provides vital information to
decision makers, the Body of Knowledge of cost estimating must therefore include
much more than techniques for gathering data and using it to estimate costs. The cost
estimator must be skilled in the broad application of construction systems. The Body of
Knowledge was created based on job analysis study and is the bases upon which test
items are created to cover content deemed essential for the practice of the profession.
The National Certification Board prepares a job task analysis revision every five years to
ensure validity in the certification examinations.
The Society has chosen the following as a working definition of cost estimating.
Cost estimating deals with the tasks of conceptual modeling, measurement, and
evaluation and comparison of the costs of each alternative.
In a different context, cost estimating is all related models, techniques, tools, and data
bases required to accurately predict the cost of an appropriately described scope of
work.
Associated with each task are the skills and techniques required to perform it. The skills
and techniques necessary for the performance of the cost estimating tasks form the
Body of Knowledge for this profession.

BASIC SKILLS BODY OF KNOWLEDGE

These basic skill areas form the background knowledge for cost estimating. It is rather broad areas of
knowledge as opposed to particular techniques or concepts. Admittedly, it would be the exceptional
cost estimator who was thoroughly proficient in all these basic skills. Generally, each basic skill can
be acquired in undergraduate college courses and/or through work experience.
Operations Planning and Control

Managerial Economics
Methods and Standards
Probability and Statistics
Project Management
Cost Accounting
Economics
Technical Report Writing
Computer Science
Public Speaking
Scheduling
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COST CONCEPTS
The remainder of the Body of Knowledge is more closely associated with the particular tasks of cost
estimating. The first tasks associated with conceptual modeling are concepts of cost. The cost concepts
are the elementary ideas about which cost estimating is concerned.

Not-to-Exceed Cost
Direct Cost Job Order Costing
Indirect Cost Constant Dollars
Variable Cost Risk/Uncertainty
Fixed Cost Internal Economies
Average Cost ROM (Rough Order Magnitude)
Marginal Cost Operating and Support Costs
Acquisition Costs
Incremental Cost
Allowable Costs
Life Cycle Cost
Labor Burden
Revenue
Design-to-Cost
Profit
Fee
Overhead
Cost Escalation
Differential Cost
G & A (General & Administrative Cost)
Direct Labor
Performance Factors
Incurred Cost
Markup Rate
Process Costing
DATA AND MEASUREMENT
The cost concepts with which the cost estimator would ideally work are frequently not measured
precisely. As a result, cost estimators must work with data that are approximate measures of concepts.
Cost estimators must fully understand the elements of data and measurement.
Labor Hour Standards

Cost Accounting Systems and Standards Cost Elements
Standard Hour Cost Work Breakdown Structures
Construction of Cost Factors Alternatives Determination
Run Time Cost Baseline
Index Numbers Composite Labor Rates
Share-Line Contract End Items
Transfer Pricing and Imputed Values Contract Types
Scrap Rate Equipment/Labor/Material Cost
Sampling Techniques Electronic Measuring Estimating Software
Escalation
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HISTORY OF ASPE'S CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
Although the founders of ASPE and the first six chapters had previously discussed the concept of
certification, it was not until 1974 that the Society embarked on this program. The first National
Director was appointed, and assigned responsibilities for developing tests in the various CSI
disciplines. In addition, the National Board accepted a preliminary format for testing.
In 1975, the Society explored seeking outside help in the area of test development. Several firms,
including Educational Testing Service (ETS) in Princeton, New Jersey, were contacted to submit
proposals and fee schedules. During the year, a series of meetings were held to review examination
procedures, test questions, and testing agency presentations. After considering the economic
impact of hiring a consultant, the Society decided to involve all chapters to implement the exam
process. The National Board approved ETS's recommendation to establish a peer group that would
not undergo the planned testing procedure. This core group would create a staff to administer the
evaluation of other candidates for certification. The final accomplishment of that year was the first
draft of the Certification application.
1976 was a banner year for ASPE. The Society formed the Code of Ethics to supplement
certification, introduced Standards and rewrote the national bylaws to encompass the program. In
May, the National Board officially adopted the tenants of certification including the Certification
application, the Code of Ethics, and certified members of the Executive Committee as the initial
peer group. Applications were then distributed to the entire membership. Over 300 Professional
Evaluation Applications were processed in August, and 233 individuals were accepted for
certification in 11 of the 16 CSI divisions.
The Long-Range Planning Task Force comprised of past National Presidents, asked the Society to
develop a "generic" test in February 1984. This exam would be available to all members regardless
of their specialty and/or the existence of a discipline test. In the ensuing four years, the
Certification Test Development Committee authored, critiqued, and administered the first General
Estimating Knowledge Exam in May 1988. In addition, the Society drew up plans for Continuing
Certification to keep estimators abreast of new advances in their profession and to ensure
continued educational and Society involvement.
The Certification Program has expanded to include several Discipline Specific Tests (DST’s). The
number of DST’s available for testing purposes is always increasing. The goal was to develop the
primary disciplines first. The first exam developed was for General Contracting estimators,
followed by Electrical, Mechanical HVAC Piping, HVAC Sheet metal, Plumbing, Concrete,
Roofing, Drywall and others. All disciplines do not necessarily have a test developed, nor will all
disciplines have a test. The tests developed are done so based primarily upon demand. All tests
are continually reviewed and updated.
In 2008, ASPE received it’s accreditation from CESB (Council of Engineering and Specialty Boards).
Accreditation of certification programs provides assurance for candidates and their employers that
our procedures conform to those of the highest standards.
Dedicated members have served in various capacities over the years to keep certification in the
forefront as one of the six fundamental purposes of our organization. The program's future course
will continue to be charted by a desire for excellence, to indicate the Society's level of
professionalism in the industry, and to focus on the improvement of each estimator's skills.
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The American Society of Professional
Estimators
Code of Ethics
Introduction
Ethical principles are presented which are intended as a broad guideline for professional
estimators and estimators in training. The philosophical foundation upon which the rules of
conduct are based is not intended to impede independent thinking processes, but is a
foundation upon which professional opinions may be based in theory and in practice.
Please recognize that membership in and certification by the American Society of Professional
Estimators are not the sole claims to professional competence but support the canons of this
code.
The distinguishing mark of a truly professional estimator is acceptance of the responsibility for
the trust of client, employer and the public. Professionals with integrity have therefore deemed
it essential to promulgate codes of ethics and to establish means of insuring their compliance.
Preamble
The objective of the American Society of Professional Estimators is to promote the development
and application of education, professional judgment and skills within the industry we serve.
Estimators must perform under the highest principles of ethical conduct as it relates to the
protection of the public, clients, employers and others in this industry and in related
professions.
The professional estimator must fully utilize education, years of experience, acquired skills and
professional ethics in the preparation of a fully detailed and accurate estimate for work in a
specific discipline. This is paramount to the development of credibility by estimators in our
professional service.
Estimating is a highly technical and learned profession and the members of this society should
know that the work is of vital importance to the clients and to the employers they serve.
Accordingly, the service provided by the estimator should exhibit honesty, fairness, trust,
impartiality and equity to all persons served.
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The Canons
Canon #1
Professional estimators shall perform services in areas of their discipline and competence.

1. Estimators shall to the best of their ability represent truthfully and clearly to a prospective client or employer their qualifications
and capabilities to perform services.
2. The estimator shall undertake to perform estimating assignments only when qualified by education or years of experience in the
technical field involved in any given assignment.
3. The estimator may accept assignments in other disciplines based on education or years of experience as long as qualified
associate, consultant or employer attests to the accuracy of their work in that assignment.
4. An estimator may be subjected to external pressures to perform work above or beyond qualifying education and experience. In
fact, estimators must retain their integrity and professionalism by avoiding involvement in situations that may cause loss of
independence and integrity as a professional estimator.
Canon #2
Professional estimators shall continue to expand their professional capabilities through continuing education programs to better
enable them to serve clients, employers, and the industry.
1. A member of the American Society of Professional Estimators will strive to gain the honored position of “Certified
Professional Estimator” and encourage others in the society to obtain this honored position.
2. Members will lend personal and financial support, where feasible, to the schools and institutions engaged in the education and
training of estimators.
3. Members will cooperate in extending the effectiveness of the profession by interchanging information and experience with other
estimators and those in training to be estimators, subject to legal or proprietary restraints.
5. Members will endeavor to provide opportunity for the professional development and the advancement of estimators and those
in training under their personal supervision.
Canon #3
Professional estimators shall conduct themselves in a manner which will promote cooperation and good relations among members
of our profession and those directly related to our profession.

1. By treating all professional associates with integrity, fairness, tolerance and respect, regardless of national origin, race, religion,
sex or age.
2. By extending fraternal consideration when giving testimony that may be damaging to a member of our society, as long as it does
not violate this Code of Ethics and the laws governing the proceedings.
3. By accepting the obligation to assist associates in complying with the code of professional ethics. The professional character of
our society is dependent upon continuing mutual cooperation with one another. It is the essential element of our continued
success.
4. By recognizing the ethical standards set by other professionals, such as architects and engineers, directly related to our industry
and by extending to them the common courtesies they deserve predicated upon the good will of all the obligations of the true
professional to uphold the highest ethical standards in our free society.
5. By acting honorably, both in personal and professional life, by avoiding situations that may erode public respect. Ethical and
personal character shall be paramount in estimators’ life styles.
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Canon #4
Professional estimators shall safeguard and keep in confidence all knowledge of the business affairs and technical procedures of an
employer or client.
1. By not revealing privileged information or facts pertaining to methods used in estimating procedures prescribed by an
employer, except as authorized or required by laws.
2. By holding in strict confidence all information concerning a client’s affairs acquired during the fulfillment of an engagement
and completion of an estimating procedure.
3. By serving clients and employers with professional concern for their best interests, provided however, this obligation must not
endanger personal integrity or independence or a high degree of ethical conduct, as set forth in this Code of Ethics and related
state and federal laws.
Canon #5
Professional estimators shall conduct themselves with integrity at all times and not knowingly or willingly enter into
agreements that violate the laws of the United States of America or of the states in which they practice. They shall establish
guidelines for setting forth prices and receiving quotations that are fair and equitable to all parties.
1. By not participating in bid shopping as it is known in the building construction industry today. Bid shopping occurs when after
the award of the contract, a contractor contacts several subcontractors of the same discipline in an effort to reduce these
previously quoted prices. This practice is unethical, unfair and is in direct violation of the Code of Ethics as recognized by the
American Society of Professional Estimators
2. By not accepting quotations from unqualified companies or suppliers. Every effort should be made to pre-qualify any bidder to
be used.
3. By not divulging privileged figures from subcontractors and suppliers to competitors prior to bid time in an effort to drive down
prices of either. Should quotes be received from subcontractors or suppliers that are obviously low or appear to be in error, this
person should be asked to review his price. When making this effort, quotes of others shall not be divulged.
4. By not padding or inflating quoted bid prices. An unethical practice for a professional estimator is to pad or inflate quotes when
bidding with firms known for bid shopping. If not a violation of applicable laws, a professional estimator should not provide
quotes to known bid shoppers.
5. Professional estimators shall not enter into the unethical practice of complimentary bids (comp bids). This practice is a violation
of the Code of Ethics of the American Society of Professional Estimators.
Canon #6
Professional estimators shall utilize their education, years of experience and acquired skills in the preparation of each estimate or
assignment with full commitment to make each estimate or assignment as detailed and accurate as their talents and abilities
allow.
1. By not formulating estimates from a partial set of bid documents. This is in direct violation of the code of good estimating
practices and is not acceptable. To formulate an accurate estimate in any discipline, a full review must be made of all related bid
documents. Any other approach could cause errors or omissions that may endanger professional integrity and reliability.
Exceptions to this rule should be considered only for the preparation of a conceptual estimate
2. It is of paramount importance to a professional estimator to minimize the possibility of making mistakes or errors. The more
detailed the estimate, the better the accuracy will be.
3. Each estimate shall be cross checked by means that will insure that it is technically and mechanically free from mistakes,
oversight or errors. If possible and feasible, estimates should be checked by other professionals. If it is not feasible for someone
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else to cross check an estimate, the estimator should cross check their own estimate by utilizing a different method, such as
using the historical data or unit prices based on previous cost data on similar project.
Canon #7
Professional estimators shall not engage in the practice of ʺBid Peddlingʺ as defined by this code. This is a breach of moral and
ethical standards, and this practice shall not be entered into by a member of this Society.

1. Bid peddling occurs when a subcontractor approaches a general contractor who has been awarded a project, with the intent of
voluntarily lowering the original price below the price level established on bid day. This action implies that the subcontractor’s
original price was either padded or incorrect. This practice undermines the credibility of the professional estimator and is not
acceptable
2. The same procedure applies to a professional estimator engaged as a general contractor, as defined in the previous paragraph,
when the estimator approaches an owner or client to voluntarily lower the original bid price.
3. When a proposal is presented, the professional estimator is stating the estimate has been prepared to the best of their ability
using their education, expertise and recognized society standards. Entering into unethical practices such as “bid peddling”
jeopardizes both personal and society professional credibility, while violating the trust of the clients.
Canon #8
Professional estimators and those in training to be estimators shall not enter into any agreement that may be considered acts of
collusion or conspiracy (bid rigging) with the implied or express purpose of defrauding clients. Acts of this type are in direct
violation of the code of ethics of the American Society of Professional Estimators.
1. Bid rigging, collusion and conspiracy, as defined by the American Society of Professional Estimators, may occur between two (2)
or more contractors or two (2) or more subcontractors. Agreements are reached by companies or individuals in the act of
conspiring to pre-set the price of a particular project (private or governmental) with the express purpose of predetermining the
intended recipient of a contract to be awarded at a fixed price.
2. Professional estimators and those in training to be estimators shall not be associated with firms which are known to participate
in the practice of bid rigging.
3. There are no conditions or social convention that will allow a professional estimator to enter into such fraudulent acts as those of
bid rigging, knowing that they are held to be unlawful, immoral, unethical and unacceptable to this society.
Canon #9
Professional estimators and those in training to be estimators shall not participate in acts such as the giving or receiving of gifts,
that are intended to be or may be construed as being unlawful acts of bribery.
1. Professional estimators should not offer cash, securities, intangible property rights or any personal items in order to influence
or that give the appearance of influencing
2. Professional estimators should not accept gifts, gratuities or entertainment that would place them in a position of breaking
existing laws (municipal, state or federal) or that give the appearance of creating an inducement which would affect the
estimator’s professional credibility by placing them in a position of obligation. ▪

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Certification Cycle Schedule Matrix
Certification Cycle 1 Cycle 2

Process (Winter) (Summer)
Submittal of Professional Last Day to submit January 1 July 1
Evaluation Application these applications for
and fees. consideration
Review of Applications by Completed By February 15 August 15

Certification Committee.
Notification to Candidates Completed By March 1 September 1

of Acceptance to the Candidates to receive
program GEK Study Guide/Paper
Topic Acceptance Letter
Workshop for Candidates Completed By March 30 September 30

(online or chapter level)
If Chapter
Workshop—Return March 31 October 1
Wkrshp Verification
Technical Paper Due Date Papers are to be June 15 December 15

submitted before the
candidate is eligible to
test
Test Dates for GEK and GEK and DST Test July March
DST *Requires Proctor (see and/or Questions and (of following year)
below) and/or DST Problems must be
Questions and Problems completed during the
Due Date month of...
Test Results to Candidates Written Notification September 1 May 1

(of following year)
Technical Paper Review These will be issued to

Results and/or Questions candidates as the
and Problems Review reviews are turned in to
Results to Candidates the Society Business
Office by the
Reviewers.
Re-submittal of Deficient Completed By October 15 June 15

Paper and/or DST (of following year)
Questions and Problems
Re-Take of GEK and/or Re-take GEK and DST November July

DST must be completed (of following year)
during the month of...as
indicated for cycle.
* Proctors must have an active CPE designation. Testing location will be determined by the Proctor. ASPE recommends Chapter
Certification Chair to serve as local Proctor. If you are a non-member or a MAL member, the Society Business Office will assist in
locating a Proctor upon request.
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ASPE Certification Program
The Certification of Professional Estimators is an acknowledgment that you have met, and continue
to meet, the criteria established for this designation as determined by the American Society of
Professional Estimators (ASPE). Attaining this recognition requires continuing commitments to
ethics, education, and employment. It is a commitment by the individual to the construction
industry and to ASPE.
ASPE certification is the highest form of professional recognition an estimator can receive. Through
its certification program, ASPE recognizes the estimating proficiency and ethical awareness of the
Certified Professional Estimator (CPE).
CPE recognition is being sought and attained by an ever growing number of construction
estimators each year. It is the only program of its kind to attest that a construction estimator has
met the necessary educational and experience requirements and has the capabilities required of our
profession.
With such diversity of backgrounds among estimators, the development of programs for both
education and certification of professional construction estimators has been a demanding and
rewarding process. For all the varied disciplines and levels of detail, the fundamental principles of
construction cost estimating remain universally applicable. Beyond these fundamentals, however,
the realms of varied disciplines make construction estimating one of the most unique challenging,
and fulfilling professions an individual may pursue.
ASPE recognizes the fundamental estimating principles inherent to all types of construction
estimating. Whether for general, mechanical, electrical, or specialty disciplines, or for an owner,
designer or contracting firm, the estimator requires knowledge that is applicable in virtually all
circumstances.
Each candidate seeking certification must meet five basic requirements.
1. Experience—Minimum of Five Years

2. Completion of Orientation Workshop
3. Technical Writing Abilities
4. Communication Skills
5. Successful completion of Certification Examinations
The Certification Board then evaluates each of the criteria for conformance to the program.
ASPE has established that a CPE candidate must possess a minimum of five years of estimating
experience in a specific discipline to be accepted into the certification program.
All candidates seeking certification must complete an orientation workshop. This workshop
provides the candidate with an overview of the requirements and guidelines of the certification
process.
Communication Skills and knowledge of estimating must be demonstrated to the Certification

Board. This is done through the writing of a technical paper on a subject approved by the Board.
The certification exam is designed to evaluate the CPE candidate’s overall knowledge of estimating.
It includes quantities, contract terms and conditions, cost reporting, ethics, and other fundamentals
of estimating. The exams consist of a four hour General Estimating Knowledge Exam (GEK) and an
eight hour Discipline Specific Test (DST). The DST concentrates on specific practices such as
15
General Contracting, Mechanical, Electrical, Excavation, and Concrete estimating. Preparation for
the exam is recommended. A candidate will not be notified of CPE status until all requirements of
the certification process have been passed.
Once recognized as a CPE, the estimator will be expected to keep abreast of current trends and
improved practices in the construction industry. Conformance is measured under the provisions of
the Certification Renewal Program. This program requires renewal of certification every three
years.
CPEs subject to renewal must document active participation in the areas of

 Industry Involvement
 Continuing Professional Development
 Education
 Creative Contributions to Construction Estimating
Professional evaluation through certification is one of many ways the American Society of
Professional Estimators endeavors to promote the profession and benefit the construction industry.
Five Steps to Certification

1. Submit Applications and Fee - Candidate’s professional evaluation application is to be
submitted to the Society Business Office no later than January 1 for the Winter Cycle and no
later than July 1 for the Summer Cycle of the calendar year. The candidate must select one of
the certification program cycles (Winter or Summer Cycle). Each cycle allows the applicant
to complete the certification program within a different time frame. The Professional
Evaluation Application must be verified by your Chapter Representative prior to being
submitted to the Society Business Office.
Candidates will be notified of acceptance to the program. If you are accepted, you will be
assigned a candidate number and a technical paper topic. The candidate number is utilized
throughout the certification process to maintain confidentiality of a candidate’s name and to
insure objectivity during the review of the technical paper, exams, and DST requirements.
2. Complete Orientation Workshop - Candidates must complete the online orientation

workshop by the indicated date of the selected cycle. (Optional chapter workshops may be
available; please verify with local chapter chair.) Orientation workshop attendance is a
requirement for obtaining your certification. The workshop will cover all steps of the
program and review sample exam questions. If you are participating in a chapter level
workshop, the attendance verification form is to be submitted to the Society Business Office
by the due date as proof of completion. Participants of the online workshop must complete
all lessons and quizzes as verification of having satisfied the workshop requirement.
3. Write 2500+ Word Technical Paper - The paper is to be completed and submitted to the
Society Business Office no later than the indicated due dated of the selected cycle in order
for the candidate to be eligible for testing. The candidate will be given an opportunity to re-
submit the paper if a failing grade is received. The candidates should prepare the technical
paper following the guidelines stated in the Technical Paper section of this guide and as
also stated in the workshop. Be sure to allow enough time to properly research the paper
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topic and complete in a professional manner.
The technical paper must be submitted via certified mail or another signed delivery service.
Technical papers received after the deadline will be returned to the candidate. There are no
exceptions to deadlines.
The Society Business Office will conduct a format review of the paper. If the paper has
format deficiencies, the paper will be returned to the candidate for revision and re-
submittal. The revised paper must be received prior to the deadline and will undergo a
second format review. Failure of this second format review will result in the end of the
current certification cycle and the candidate will be required to apply to the next available
cycle.
Once the paper has passed the format review, it will be reviewed by volunteer CPEs for
content. The paper must score a minimum of 18 out of 30 possible points by 2 of the 3 CPE
reviewers to be accepted as meeting the technical paper requirement. If the paper does not
successfully meet the technical paper requirement, the paper will be returned to the
candidate for a one time content revision and must be resubmitted by the indicated due
date. The same CPE reviewers will review the second submittal.
The candidate’s paper must pass the technical paper requirement or the current certification
cycle ends and the candidate will be required to apply to the next available cycle.
4. Take GEK Exam - This four hour test is to be taken during the testing month of the selected
cycle. Candidates should schedule test with his/her proctor. The Society Business Office
has to be notified of the scheduled test date so that test packets may be prepared and sent to
the proctor. One re-take of exam will be allowed. The candidate must achieve a “Pass”
exam score status or the current certification cycle will end. The candidate will be required
to apply to the next available cycle.
A GEK Study Guide is available from the Society Business Office. The GEK Study Guide is
included as part of the online orientation workshop OR it may be purchased from the
ASPE online store. The Study Guide is highly recommended for subcontractors taking the
GEK exam.
5. Take DST Exam - This eight hour test is to be taken during the testing month of the selected
cycle. Candidates should schedule test with his/her proctor. The Society Business Office
has to be notified of the scheduled test date so that test packets may be prepared and sent to
the proctor. One retake of the exam will be allowed. The candidate must achieve a “Pass”
exam score status or the current certification cycle will end. The candidate will be required
to apply to the next available cycle.
DST Questions & Problems: If a test in a specific discipline is not currently available, the
DST requirements are to be met by submitting 100 discipline specific questions and 2
problems following specific guidelines. Problems are to be “mini” estimates. The candidate
must submit their questions and problems by the end of the testing month of the selected
cycle. The Questions and Problems must be reviewed and accepted by the Certification
Board to satisfy the DST examination portion of the program. NOTE: It is recommended that
you begin preparing your Questions and Problems as soon as possible to meet your DST requirement due to
the heavy workload in preparing the technical paper and DST Questions and Problems.
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Candidates that fail to complete any portion of the process within the time allowances will
forfeit all fees and be required to re-apply to the next cycle.
Certification Fee Schedule

ASPE Member Candidate Fees:
Orientation Workshop Fee (select one)
Certification Online Workshop : $ 125.00 (GEK Study Guide Included with Online Workshop)
Chapter Workshop Option (if available) $ 75.00 (GEK Study Guide to be ordered separately)
Testing Fee
GEK and DST Testing Fees: $ 275.00
Non-Member Candidate Fees:
Orientation Workshop Fee:
Certification Online Workshop: $ 125.00
Testing Fee
GEK and DST Testing Fees: $ 525.00
Renewal Certification Fee :

On time Renewal $75.00
Re-Instatement Request $150.00
Amnesty Request $550.00
Lifetime Status Request $400.00
GEK Study Guide: $49.00 members or $59.00 non-members
NOTES:
A. Candidates who do not fulfill the requirements of certification within the scheduled period are
removed from the program. Any candidate who is removed from the program and who seeks
certification must apply as a new candidate and pay all applicable fees. If the candidate reapplies
at the next available certification cycle, any successfully completed portion(s) of the certification
program will be carried forward.
B. Certification Representative may be a Chapter Officer or Chapter Certification Chair. Contact

the local Chapter to verify who conducts Certification for the chapter. If the applicant is a
Member-at Large, the Certification Representative will be the Regional Certification Committee
Member. All correspondence will be with the Committee Member except where directed to the
Society Business Office.
C. If a candidate wishes to apply for an exception to any requirement of the Certification

Program, the candidate must submit the formal request in writing to the Certification
Committee within the current cycle for Certification or Certification Renewal period. On
receipt of the request, the Certification Committee will review the request and advise the
candidate accordingly. Any requests for appeal are to be directed to the Certification
Committee for review. All decisions of the Certification Committee are final.
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ASPE Certification Methodology
Since the early 1980’s, the American Society of Professional Estimators, ASPE, organization has
continually refined the criteria for establishment of examinations for achieving the status of
Certified Professional Estimator. ASPE’s Certification Methodology shall serve to clarify
ASPE’s examination process and program requirements for Certified Professional Estimator.
Psychometric testing refers to the process of measuring a candidate’s relevant strengths and
weaknesses in a valid, reliable and fair method consisting of the following components;
validity, development of assessment specifications, test construction, maintenance of a test item
database, pass/fail standards, standardization and uniformity, maintenance of security, overall
assessment analysis, score reporting, appeals and due process, and record retention. The
psychometric exam is employed to assess a fit for certifying an individual as a top performer in
the construction estimating industry. The basic purpose in using psychometric testing is to gain
an accurate bearing of the candidate’s cognitive abilities in estimating well enough to certify
them as leaders of the estimating industry in their relative construction discipline.
Certification by ASPE represents the intersection of protection of the public, fairness to

candidates, and certainly, various interests of the profession. ASPE has accomplished the
highest level of professionalism in the promotion of validity and reliability, and subsequently,
fairness by establishing the Certification program through psychometric examination. To be a
Certified Professional Estimator is to attain the highest form of professional recognition an
estimator can receive in the construction industry. The CPE demonstrates the ability to perform
their duties in the most ethical and professional manner possible by having the experience and
credentials to qualify to apply, pass two psychometric standardized and uniform examinations
and prepare a paper showing the level of knowledge and skills needed to competently conduct
their work responsibilities as a high level professional in their discipline.
Becoming a CPE is about showing sufficiency of evidence that there is due cause to award such
a title. ASPE Certification Exams achieve the objective of identifying the core knowledge,
critical work functions, job tasks and subtasks and relevant knowledge, skills and abilities that
are common across a representative sampling of current practitioners or job incumbents. The
Certification exam is designed to evaluate the CPE candidate’s overall knowledge of estimating.
It includes quantities, contact terms and conditions, cost reporting, ethics, and other
fundamentals of estimating.
Each candidate seeking certification must meet five basic requirements; a minimum of five
years experience, completion of an orientation workshop, technical writing abilities,
communication skills, and successful completion of Certification examinations. The
Certification Board then evaluates each of the criteria for conformance to the program. As soon
as approved applicants submit their applications they are assigned a number and are only
known and referenced by that number from that point on for the sake of complete autonomy.
The Certification Board constantly maintains a thorough technical and content review of the test
components to ensure proper content validity. The tests include a four hour General Estimating
Knowledge Exam, (GEK) and an eight hour Discipline Specific Test, (DST). The DST
concentrates on specific practices such as General Contracting, Mechanical, Electrical,
Excavation, and Concrete estimating. These are two types of certification assessments,
(true/false and multiple choice) requiring accurate and efficient recall of knowledge. Work
19
samples, (problems) are a direct sample of estimates performed in the work place and provide a
directly related certification assessment.
If a test is not fully developed in a specific disciple that a candidate desires to be examined in,
they have the opportunity to write a test for that discipline. This test must include a minimum
of 100 disciple specific questions, two working problems following specific guidelines including
a minimum of 25 questions each about each problem. The Certification Committee then grades
the applicant’s new test for the same criteria as all other tests that are generally prepared by
CPEs for validity of technical knowledge and overall knowledge of estimating including a
strong understanding of specific practices in the specific area.
An additional work sample which is part of the CPE program is the requirement of a 2,500
word paper written by the candidate demonstrating their communication skills and estimating
knowledge. The specific subject is selected by three members of the Certification Board from
three topics submitted by the candidate at time of application. It is intended this paper give the
applicant an opportunity to prepare and explain how to perform an estimate in his major field
of expertise much in the same manner that they are performing in their daily work.
The written technical papers are graded by three CPEs and evaluated for communication skills,
writing skills, and a thorough knowledge of estimating. If the paper does not receive a passing
grade of a minimum of 18 out of 30 points, the applicant is given one opportunity to rewrite the
paper. The candidates are notified by the Society Business Office of their peer review score.
The preparation of exams for both general construction and separate discipline certification is
performed exclusively by the Certification Committee, also considered subject matter experts.
The Certification Committee members have performed job analysis, task analysis, and role
delineation studies to investigate the job relevance of the certification assessment and identify
the core knowledge, critical work functions, job tasks and subtasks, and relevant knowledge,
skills and abilities that are common of fellow job incumbents. All of these components are
implemented into the certification exams. ASPE recognizes the fundamental estimating
principles inherent to all types of construction estimating. The CPE exams are structured to
evaluate individual competence by being objective, fair, and based on the knowledge, skills,
and abilities needed to function as a Certified Professional Estimator in the relative discipline
the candidate is testing for.
Once the tests are written, they are beta tested and taken by other CPEs to confirm the validity,
reliability and consistency with what is expected in the industry of an accomplished
professional. The tests are reviewed for demonstration of knowledge of estimating in the
construction industry with the abilities needed to function in the specialty area. The tests are
reviewed for a consistent amount of detail in each specialty area to the extent that any test
provided for examination will require a sufficient knowledge in the specialty area that is
demonstrative of an accomplished professional. Only until this process is completed, is each
test made available for candidates to be taken.
Once the tests are taken and completed by the applicant, they are scored and recorded by the
grading service provider. The candidates are notified by the Society Business Office in writing
of their pass/fail status. Each candidate is given a re-take opportunity for each exam that did
not receive a passing score.
The grading service provider for ASPE provides individual candidate scores and provides an
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item difficulty’ report that indicates how many times an individual question was answered
incorrectly. These reports are monitored and when there is a question that is consistently
answered incorrectly, that question is pulled out and reviewed and is subject to possible
modifications or removal from the test. The passing point standard has been determined as per
the ASPE Certification Pass/Fail Determination procedure.
Maintenance of the test item database is performed consistently and in the same manner is
reviewed annually to evaluate the tests effectiveness. If it appears all candidates are constantly
missing the same question or answering at 100% correct, the tests are reviewed and adjusted to
improve the validity, quality, and fairness of the tests or the questions may be replaced. The
Certification Board keeps historical records that include measures of average performance,
performance variations, and pass/fail percentages for the overall candidate population on the
overall assessment.
ASPE’s test management system is designed to enable reconstruction of examinee responses to

the extent that a re-evaluation process is in place as an appeals process. Scores that are
marginal failures are analyzed for comments by the examinee for professional evaluation of
questions with disputed incorrect answers that may have interpretive issues worth
reconsideration. Examinees that desire to discuss their test scores are given that opportunity for
furthering their understanding and knowledge and improving the integrity of the exams. What
is sought by the ASPE Certification Committee in the exams is the ability to perform and
demonstrate a competent knowledge of the subject matter for a Certified Professional
Estimator. Response records are maintained for at least two years to allow the examinee to
initiate the appeals process.
All exams are given in the same format setting in a standard manner with a proctor to assure
proper handling of materials, directions to candidates, allowed and prohibited acts and
materials, appropriate responding to candidate questions, monitoring of administration,
including prevention of candidate collaboration, and accounting of materials. Consistency and
stability are continually maintained in the exam preparations, exam evaluations,
administration, assessments, security administering, test scoring and record keeping in a never
ending effort to afford fairness to all applicants in their pursuance of Certified Professional
Estimator entitlement.
21
22
ASPE Certification Pass/Fail Determination
The “pass point” (PP) or “passing grade” (PG) for the American Society of Professional
Estimators (ASPE) Certified Professional Estimator (CPE) exams is the minimum score which is
required to pass each of the certification exams administered by ASPE. The method by which
the PP/PG is determined is outlined below.
STEP ONE
Each of the exams is written by either an existing CPE or an applicant. The CPE process allows
an applicant to provide questions and problems in their area of expertise should a CPE exam
not be fully developed. Prior to the test being distributed for psychometric evaluation, there is a
preliminary process by which the exam is reviewed for:
A. Accuracy-Are the problems, questions and their answers correct? The questions and
answers must have complete documentation which provides verifiable back up via
product manuals, published papers, textbooks, association (for instance the American
Concrete Institute) publications, etc. The problems are reviewed for dimension (if
required) accuracy, formulas, and math calculations
B. Grammar—the test is reviewed by the Certification Board and the CPE administrator in
the ASPE national business office for accuracy in proper grammar, spelling and
punctuation.
Once each exam has been judged to be in compliance with items A and B above, it is “rated” by
a panel of CPEs who are experts in the exam’s scope. ASPE uses a modified version of the
Angoff Method to determine the PP/PG for each exam.
STEP TWO
The CPEs and experts independently rate each question on the exam. The ratings are set as the
likelihood that a competent estimator with the prerequisite qualifications for applying to the
CPE program can answer the question correctly. After the panel rates the questions, they are
then provided with the ratings of the other panel members. Each panel member is given an
opportunity to change their ratings based on the ratings of the other panel members.
STEP THREE
After the questions have been verified and rated the second time, the mean, or average, score
for the entire exam is calculated. The score MUST meet the minimum correct answers to reach
the PP/PG which generally reflects 70 percent.
STEP FOUR
Every CPE applicant is encouraged to comment on each question he/she feels is problematic
and should be reviewed by the Certification Board. In the field of construction estimating,
different parts of the country have different phraseology within a field of work, or a trade in
one part of the country may be responsible for a particular scope of work and the same trade
will not consider the same scope as a part of their responsibility in another part of the country.
For example, sheet metal flashing will be included in the HVAC trade in Arizona, but not in
23
Oregon. Therefore a standardized test must be written so that an estimator in the Southwest
and one in the Northeast can arrive at the same answer for the same question. If the applicant’s
score borderlines the PP/PG, the entire Certification Committee will review any comments
made by the applicant regarding perceived ambiguous questions. If a majority of the Board
members agree that a comment which cast doubt on the validity of a questions and/or answer,
the applicant will be awarded appropriate points to their grade. Should the applicant provide
the Board with sufficient, relevant and accurate comments, the applicant may “earn” a
sufficient number of points to pass the exam. The exam questions which are shown to be
flawed by such comments are either permanently removed from the test data bank or revised to
correct any ambiguity.
STEP FIVE
The tests are graded by an outside service. As a part of the reports sent with the grades, the
service provides a listing of questions and the percentage of correct vs. incorrect answers for
each problem. Should a question be answered wrong more than 50% of the time, that question
will be removed from the process until it is revised to meet the rating requirement.
This method of question/answer review and rating insures that the PP/PG is set empirically
rather than an arbitrary “setting” of a percentage required to pass the exams.
24
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
What are the basic prerequisites for applying to the ASPE professional evaluation process?
At the time of completion of the Professional Evaluation Application you must have a minimum of
five (5) years construction estimating experience in the specific discipline for which you seek
certification. This is not negotiable. There will be no exceptions.
How do I apply for Certification?
Information and Application forms are available on the ASPE website. Please visit
www.aspenational.org. Or you may contact your Chapter Certification Chair, your Regional
Governor, Regional Certification Board Member or the Society Business Office.
Is there a cut-off date for submitting the Application for Professional Evaluation?
Yes. Refer to the matrix schedule for complete information on completion dates for each step of the
program.
Is attendance required for the Orientation Workshop?
Yes. It is mandatory that all Certification Candidates attend and complete the Certification
Orientation Workshop.
What costs are associated with Certification?
Current fees are listed at part of the Professional Evaluation Application and available on the
national website, www.aspenational.org. The workshop type and number of examinations for which
the candidate has applied will determine certification fees. Applicants should be prepared to
purchase any of the recommended texts/study materials that would most beneficially complement
their current libraries. Applicants who successfully complete the Certification process will be subject
to a Certification Renewal policy and will submit a renewal application every three 3 years.
What does the Certification process entail?
Certification involves four major elements: an Orientation Workshop; a Technical Paper; the
General Estimating Knowledge (GEK) Exam consisting of 4 hours of questions; and the Discipline
Specific Test (DST) consisting of 8 hours of questions and problems. If your specific discipline is
not available when the GEK examination is taken, you are required to write 100 Discipline Specific
questions and 2 problems with 50 questions each. All problems must be “mini” estimates.
How will I be informed of my acceptance into the Certification Program?
The Society Business Office (SBO) will notify you of your acceptance. Approved applicants for
examination will be assigned a candidate number to ensure confidentiality throughout the balance
of the certification process. Technical paper topics will also be assigned at that time.
25
When are examinations given?
Proctored examinations must be taken in the time frame outlined in the Certification Cycle
schedule. The applicant shall work with the local Chapter Certification Chairperson and/or the
Regional Certification Committee member to arrange for a CPE to proctor the exams. Exams can
also be taken during the ASPE National Convention.
Where are examinations administered?
Each proctor will inform candidates of the examination location. Members-at-Large will travel to the
most convenient examination site to complete testing. Extenuating circumstances will be
considered on an individual basis; however, MALs residing outside of the United States will be
expected to return to the United States for examination.
Why is the Technical Paper required?
The Technical Paper demonstrates that the candidate can communicate and express their
estimating knowledge and capabilities. It also serves as an additional way to measure your
experience in your chosen profession. It is an import part of why our certification Program has
achieved the recognition of governmental agencies and other professional industry organizations.
Why can't I predetermine a topic for my Technical Paper?
As a candidate, you are requested to submit three specific topics in your area of expertise so that
the Certification Committee can equitably assign topics to all applicants. One of the topics or one
closely related will be assigned.
What may I bring to the examination?
You are allowed to furnish your own calculator and writing instruments. Other items related to test
day would be thoroughly covered at the mandatory Orientation Workshop. No computers or
programmable calculators are allowed.
What requirements must be successfully completed in order to become a Certified

Professional Estimator?
It is necessary to complete the Professional Evaluation Application and to be accepted to the

program. Once accepted to the program, candidates must complete the mandatory Certification
Orientation Workshop, pass the Technical Paper requirements, pass the GEK exam and pass the
DST requirements concerning your discipline, to receive the designation of Certified Professional
Estimator.
How will I be notified of the test results?
The exam results are received from the Test Grading Service Center. The Society Business Office
verifies the results and will inform you in writing of your PASS/FAIL status.
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What happens if I fail the examination(s)?
A FAIL status on the General Estimating Knowledge (GEK) exam requires that you retake the GEK
Exam on the next testing date. A FAIL status on the Discipline Specific Test (DST) requires that
you retake the DST Exam on the next testing date. A second FAIL status on either the GEK or
DST results in termination from the Certification Program. You may reapply at the next testing
cycle.
Will I receive proof of Certification by the Society?
You will receive a certificate attesting to your compliance with the requirements of the Certification
Program. The certificate is issued with the date of your successful completion of the program.
ASPE members will have their membership status upgraded to Certified Professional Estimator
(CPE).
How long is the Certification valid?
The Certification is valid for a period of three (3) years from the first August 1 following the date you
receive notification of your CPE status. The expiration date is indicated on the certificate.
Certification may be renewed every three years by satisfactory completion of the Certification
Renewal Program. After 4 complete renewal cycles (15 years as a CPE) without a lapse in
certification renewal and an ASPE member in good standing without a lapse, candidates may apply
for the status of “Lifetime CPE”.
What are the rewards of becoming a Certified Professional Estimator?
As a Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), you will receive the professional recognition of your
peers and all of the rights, privileges and responsibilities incumbent upon a professional.
What happens if I fail to submit a Technical Paper by the deadline?
Candidates who fail to submit a Technical Paper by the deadline will be given a chance to explain,
in writing, the reason for the failure to meet the requirement. The explanation must be submitted to
the National Certification Committee. The Committee will review each applicants request for an
extension and vote as to the approval or denial of the request. The Board’s decision is final.
Should an extension be denied, the applicant should meet the indicated deadlines of the cycle. If
the deadlines are missed, the candidate will be subject to the same guidelines as missing a cycle
deadline.
27
28
The Technical
Paper
“The technical paper provides a way to measure

the applicant’s knowledge, capabilities,
experience in a specific discipline, and the ability
to communicate that knowledge”
29
THE TECHNICAL PAPER
Technical Papers are critical to the continuing education of members of the American Society of Professional
Estimators. They provide opportunities for the enhancement and expression of estimating information.
The creation of an acceptable Technical Paper is one of the requirements for becoming a Certified
Professional Estimator (CPE). The Technical Paper serves to complement the question/answer and problem
solving elements of the examination process. It provides the Society with an additional way to measure the
applicant's knowledge, capabilities, experience in the specific discipline, and the ability to communicate that
knowledge.
Within the question/answer and problem solving elements of the exam, the creator of the test materials
provides a formal structure for the examinee. The Technical Paper gives the responsibility for total
development to the candidate. All who have had to compose written communications are aware of the
creative thought process involved, and the organizational and technical skills required. These same processes
and skills were utilized to create any written composition, from the elementary level book report, to the
postgraduate thesis. We are also aware of the high value placed on the ability to communicate ideas, opinions,
methods and information in writing. These communication skills are essential for illustrating our worth in the
profession of construction estimating.
The Technical Paper furnishes the opportunity to exercise your writing abilities and memorializes areas of the
construction estimating expertise through organized, coherent documentation.
PROCESS
The Technical Paper, comprised of at least 2,500 words, must explain in detail the estimating process for your
approved topic. A sample paper will be available for review during the orientation workshop. The paper
must conform to the spirit of ASPE's Code of Ethics and shall be an original product, composed specifically
for the purpose of attaining certification.
Information should flow in an organized manner. Passive voice has no place in technical writing. Use active
voice and simple, clear, direct phrasing. First and second person is rarely appropriate in technical writing. It is
preferred to use third person when talking about the facts and data to ensure a more professional air in
discussing the theoretical approach for your paper. Appropriate, charts, tables, and graphs should be included
for effective illustration.
Get feedback! Finish your paper well in advance, so that you can improve the writing. Have an outside
reader review to make certain the use of correct sentence structure, proper grammar and spelling.
TERMINOLOGY
Define terms used in the composition of the paper to assist reader understanding. Keep in mind that the
persons responsible for evaluating the text may be located in different geographic areas and may not be totally
familiar with your regional terminology. Develop a formal glossary when warranted.
REFERENCES
All non-original materials must be properly referenced using a commonly accepted method of notation.
Consult a public librarian for knowledgeable assistance in this area. Documentation of releases required by
copyrights must be included with your transmittal package.
SUBMITTAL PROCEDURES
30
Submit to the Society Business Office: Double Check for Completeness.
 One original unbound copy
 Three unbound photocopies of the Technical Paper
 One CD of the technical paper in Microsoft Word; NOT in PDF.
 A signed copy of the Paper Topic Acceptance Letter
The paper must be received at the Society Business Office prior to the date listed in the Certification Program
Schedule. You must submit the Technical Paper via certified mail or another signed delivery service.
Submittals received after the specified date will be returned without action. Accepted submittals become
property of the American Society of Professional Estimators. You must retain an original copy of your
Technical Paper for the purpose of completing revisions in the event the paper fails to meet acceptance.
REVIEW PROCEDURES
The Certification Board oversees the review and evaluation process. A judgment of "acceptable for purpose
of certification" is mandatory to satisfy this element of the program.
Format Review
Each paper is reviewed for compliance with the format elements established by the Format
Review Guidelines. Authors who do not comply with the Format Guidelines are advised
with a copy of the Deficient Format Review Evaluation. Candidates are instructed to
resubmit revised Technical Papers prior to the date listed in the revision notification.
Content Review
The Society Business Office distributes a copy of each paper to be reviewed by two (2)
certified members. The reviewers shall make every effort to complete the Content Review
within 2 to 3 weeks. The reviewer will send the evaluation to the Society Business Office.
The candidate must earn a minimum of 18 points per the Content Criteria Evaluation
Worksheet from two (2) reviewers to determine the paper "acceptable for purpose of
certification." If one reviewer deems the paper acceptable, but the other does not, a third
reviewer will grade the paper as the “tie-breaker”.
An award of less than 18 points from any of the two reviewers shall constitute a judgment of
"deficient for the purpose of Certification." Candidates will be advised of their status with a
copy of the Content Criteria Evaluation Worksheet.
Resubmitted technical papers must be received by the Society Business Office per the written
notification to candidates. Untimely responses or second deficient judgments constitute
termination for the current Certification Cycle.
Second Content Review

The reviewer(s), who judged the paper to be deficient, carry out the second content review. If two
reviewers judged the paper to be deficient, both must deem the paper acceptable during the second
review. If one reviewer judged the paper to be “deficient” and one judged it “acceptable”, only the
“deficient” reviewer has to determine the paper as acceptable during the second review. Thus the
paper will be acceptable for the purpose of certification.
REQUIRED ELEMENTS
Title Page
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The Title Page must contain only the following elements:
1. Title of Technical Paper

2. Name of Author
3. Date Written
Society Ownership Page

The Society Ownership Page shall contain the following elements:
1. Society Ownership Statement

You MUST include the following statement, as written, and provide your name (in typewritten
characters), signature and date:
"I hereby acknowledge that the contents of this Technical Paper belong to the Society, which is free to publish or
otherwise make such use of all or portions of the Paper as it sees fit. If applicable, I have designated by the use of
1/4" wide black tape on the right margin opposite the text or reference materials, those portions that are considered
proprietary, and not available for the Society's use or publication. I have obtained and attached all documentation of
releases required by copyright laws for all non-original materials incorporated or referenced in this Paper."
Author Page
In approximately 100 words, write an autobiographical sketch on a separate, non-numbered page presenting
your qualification to the Certification Committee. The Title Page, Society Ownership Page and Author Page
will be removed from the paper prior to review distribution to insure author confidentiality.
You should not use your name or the name of your employer in the remaining elements of the
Technical Paper.
Cover Page
The Cover Page must contain only the following elements:
1. Title of Technical Paper

2. Candidate Number (assigned to the applicant by the Certification Board)
3. Date Written (month and year of composition)
Number the pages concurrently in the lower center of each page starting with the cover page as page 1 and
continuing through the balance of the pages. The Cover Page remains with the paper throughout the entire
review process.
Table of Contents
Provide a Table of Contents, which lists major headings and page numbers.
Body
A Technical Paper must address the following:
1. Introduction
a. Main CSI Division
b. Specific Sub-Division: Code and Name
c. Brief description of subject matter
2. Types and Methods of Measurements
3. Specific factors to consider that may affect things like take-off and pricing such as quantities vs. large
32
quantities, geographic location, and seasonal effect on work
4. Overview of labor, material, equipment, indirect costs and approach to mark-ups (in depth details of
these can be found in a variety of estimating books on the market)
5. Special risk considerations
6. Ratios and analysis (present analysis tools used to test final bid; give examples)
7. Miscellaneous pertinent information
8. Sample sketch
9. Sample take-off and pricing sheets (should be a “mini-estimate”)
33
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Avoid the composition of an entire policy and procedures manual and topics that are too broad in
nature.
2. Be specific.
3. Based on certain criteria or assumptions, present alternative ways to estimate the same item relative to
newly discovered facts or relationships.
4. Address the cost impact of laws, safety requirements, government regulations, etc., on the type of
construction work you estimate. Show examples.
5. Share techniques for tracking historical cost data and other practices that have improved your
professional capacities as an estimator. Identify “tell” items in estimate.
6. Avoid reference to product brands, specific companies, organizations and persons unless they are
considered an industry standard.
7. Do not provide labor productivity rates, unless used in examples and pricing estimate sheets; instead,
instruct means to developing them.
8. Do not try to write a book.
9. Think of your topic in terms of what would be covered in a CHAPTER of a book.
10. Use charts and graphs to illustrate a new trend in your discipline.
11. Present thoughts on one or two procedures, which have improved your accuracy in the preparation of
cost estimates.
12. Illustrate how you develop an assembly or group of line items for use in preparing conceptual
estimates for projects. Stick with one or two assemblies to avoid being too general. Comparison of
the same assembly under different conditions and variables can also be quite interesting.
13. Remember that your Technical Paper MUST explain “HOW TO ESTIMATE THE COST OF…..”
14. Include a sketch.
34
OFFICIAL FORMAT REVIEW GUIDELINES
NOTE: Failure to meet this format will result in your paper being returned due to Format Deficiency
1. Title Page (Title, Author, Date)

2. Society Ownership Page (Signature & Date)
3. Author Page (100 words)
4. Cover Page (Title, Candidate #, Date)
5. Table of Contents (include page numbers)
6. Introduction
a. Main CSI Division
b. Specific Sub-Division (Code and Name)
c. Brief Description of Subject Matter
7. Types and Methods of Measurements
8. Specific factors that need to be considered that may affect things like take-off and pricing
a. Small quantities vs. large quantities
b. Geographic location
c. Seasonal effect on work
9. Overview of labor, material, equipment, indirect costs, approach and mark-ups
10. Special risk considerations
11. Ratios and analysis (tools used to test final bid)
12. Miscellaneous pertinent information
13. Sample Sketch
14. Sample Take-off and Pricing Sheet
15. Terminology/Glossary (if required)
16. References (non-original material)
17. Copyright releases (non-original material)
18. Copy of Approved Topic Letter
Submit your Technical Paper according to the following:
19. 2,500 words minimum in items 6 through 12 above

20. Printed - double spaced and single sided
21. Pages numbered consecutively (bottom center of pages)
22. Proprietary portions noted
23. One (1) original - unbound
24. Three (3) copies - unbound
25. One (1) CD (In MicroSoft Word Format Only – NO PDF)
35
FORMAT REVIEW EVALUATION WORKSHEET
Candidate:________________________________________I.D.#___________________
Paper Title:_______________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Approved Deficiency
1. Title Page (Title, Author, Date) ____________ ____________

2. Society Ownership Page (Signature & Date) ____________ ____________
3. Author Page (100 Words) ____________ ____________
4. Cover Page (Title, Candidate #, Date) ____________ ____________
5. Table of Contents ____________ ____________
6. Introduction ____________ ____________
a. Main CSI Division ____________ ____________
b. Specific Sub-Division (Code & Name) ____________ ____________
c. Brief Description of Subject Matter ____________ ____________
7. Sample Sketch ____________ ____________
8. Sample Take-off and Pricing Sheet ____________ ____________
9. Terminology/Glossary (if required) ____________ ____________
10. References (if required) ____________ ____________
11. Copyright releases (non-original material) ____________ ____________
12. Copy of Approved Topic Letter ____________ ____________
13. 2,500 words minimum ____________ ____________
14. Printed - single-sided, double-spaced ____________ ____________
15. Pages numbered consecutively (bottom cntr.) ____________ ____________
16. Proprietary portions noted ____________ ____________
17. One (1) original - unbound ____________ ____________
18. Three (3) copies - unbound ____________ ____________
19. One (1) CD (In Word Format – NO PDF ____________ ____________
Reviewer:___________________________________Date:_________________________
36
Below are the suggested procedures, grading rubrics, and the grading evaluation sheet that are
provided to all technical paper reviewers. Please review so that you develop an idea of the
review assessment.
How to Read a Technical Paper and Write an Effective Critique

Learning to read a technical paper is a critical but rarely taught skill. Most learn on their own
using trial and error. One concept to reviewing technical papers is the “three-pass” approach as
developed by S. Keshav of the University of Waterloo.
“The Three-Pass Approach – the key idea is that you should read the paper in three passes,
instead of starting at the beginning and reading your way to the end. Each pass accomplishes
specific goals and builds upon the previous pass:
The First Pass – gives you a general idea about the paper
The Second Pass – let’s you grasp the paper’s content
The Third Pass – helps you understand the paper in depth
The First Pass:

The First pass is a quick scan of the paper. This pass should take about five to ten minutes and
consists of the following steps:
1. Carefully read the title, introduction, and brief description
2. Read the section and sub-section headings, but ignore everything else
3. Read the conclusions
4. Glance over the references, mentally ticking off the ones you've already read
At the end of the First pass, you should be able to answer the Four Cs:
1. Category: Should reflect “How to Estimate the Cost of…?.”
2. Context: Should reflect the approach to the estimate.
3. Correctness: Does the approach/method appear to be valid?
4. Clarity: Is the paper well written?
The Second Pass

In the second pass, read the paper with greater care. It helps to jot down the key points, or to
make comments in the margins, as you read.
1. Look carefully at the Figures, diagrams and other illustrations in the paper. Pay special
attention to the take-off and sample sketch. Do they support the details of the paper?
Mistakes in these supporting documents will separate rushed, shoddy work from the truly
excellent.
2. Remember to mark relevant unread references for further reading (this is a good way to
learn more about the background of the paper).
After this pass, you should be able to grasp the content of the paper. You should be able to
summarize the main gist of the paper, with supporting evidence, to someone else. This level of
detail is appropriate for a paper in which you are reviewing, but may not lie in your area of
37
specialty.
Sometimes you won't understand a paper even at the end of the second pass. This may be
because the subject matter is new to you, with unfamiliar terminology and acronyms.
Or the authors may use a technique that you don't understand, so that the bulk of the paper is
incomprehensible. The paper may be poorly written with unsubstantiated assertions and
numerous forward references. Or it could just be that it's late at night and you're tired. You can
now choose to: (a) set the paper aside, hoping you don't need to understand the presented
methods in your career, (b) return to the paper later, perhaps after reading background material
or (c) persevere and go on to the third pass.
The Third Pass

To fully understand a paper requires a third pass. The key to the third pass is to attempt to
virtually re-implement the paper: that is, making the same assumptions as the authors, re-create
the work. By comparing this re-creation with the actual paper, you can easily identify not only a
paper's innovations, but also its hidden failings and assumptions.
This pass requires great attention to detail. You should identify and challenge every assumption
in every statement. Moreover, you should think about how you yourself would present a
particular idea. This comparison of the actual with the virtual lends a sharp insight into the proof
and presentation techniques in the paper and you can very likely add this to your scope of tools.
During this pass, you should also jot down ideas for improvements to the paper.
At the end of this pass, you should be able to reconstruct the entire structure of the paper, as well
as be able to identify its strong and weak points. In particular, you should be able to pinpoint
implicit assumptions, missing documentation to relevant work, and potential issues with
techniques.”1
Review and Evaluation

“Good papers contain something of merit. You, an expert in the subject, should be able to find it
(if it exists). However, the item of merit may be poorly presented, which can undermine the
paper’s value.”4 Remember that critical review does not mean negative review. Identify the
flaws, but try to suggest how to fix the flaws. Be constructive. Mention what the paper’s value
would be if it were improved. When making evaluations, keep in mind, everyone will view a
job differently. If the author has suggested a method of construction that is different from what
you would choose, it does not make the approach wrong.
The newly developed assessment rubrics should be helpful in your evaluation of primary
technical paper traits and the estimating criteria. The criteria should be assessed by the rubric
and asking a series of questions about the paper.
To critically review the paper, you should ask the following questions:
 Has the author demonstrated HOW to perform the estimate?
 Does the author demonstrate estimating knowledge of the subject?
 Has the author provided enough technical or trade associated information for the
reviewer to understand the subject?
 Does the author’s approach reflect an expected level of expertise for a CPE?
38
 Has the author demonstrated how special considerations impact the estimate?
 Does the author’s use and interpretation of methodology used to develop the estimate
meet that of the current industry standards or is it outdated, leading to invalid results?
 Is the paper well written? Are the details of the estimate complete?
 Was the author successful in communicating his/her points?
 Is the use of figures, tables or examples appropriate?
 Are the organization, spelling, grammar, and style satisfactory?
 Does the paper present a sample estimate? Is the estimate calculated correctly? Major
errors in mathematical calculations will require a re-submittal of the paper.
 Does the paper reference a sample sketch?
Writing the Critique

You will be asked to complete a rating based criteria score sheet (see sample) and to write
additional comments. Responses that are too long to fit in the allocated space may be submitted
on separate pages. You should keep a copy of the paper for reference should the candidate wish
to discuss your findings. Below is the format that is recommended for submitting your
comments.4 [format developed by Alan Meier, University of California, Berkeley]
(1) Title and candidate number of the paper
(2) Summary of paper
This needs to be only 1-3 sentences, but it demonstrates that you understand the paper.
(3) Good things about the paper (one paragraph)
This is not always necessary, especially when the review is generally favorable. However, it is
strongly recommended if the review is critical. Such introductions are good psychology if you
want the author to drastically revise the paper.
(4) Major comments
Discuss the author’s assumptions, technical approach, analysis, results, conclusions, reference,
etc. Be constructive, if possible, by suggesting improvements.
(5) Minor comments
The section contains comments on style, figures, grammar, etc. If any of these are especially
poor and detract from the overall presentation, then they might escalate to the ‘major comments’
section. It is acceptable to write these comments in list (or bullet) form.
(6) Recommendations
Provide insight to back up your decision and suggest how to improve the quality of the paper.
39
When to Decline
You will be asked to finish a review within a specific time. “Unfortunately, a good review takes
many hours to prepare and it must compete with other obligations. Therefore, you can (and
should) decline to review a paper if you cannot devote the necessary time before the deadline.
Upon inspection of the paper you may realize that you are not competent to review the paper.
This is nothing to be ashamed about because staff cannot perfectly match papers and
reviewers.”4 You should notify the Certification Coordinator or your Regional Certification
Board member immediately to discuss your concerns.
When you decline to review a paper, the coordinator will be particularly gratified if you suggest
an alternate reviewer.
The Certification Coordinator keeps a list of volunteer reviewers. One goal is to avoid asking
people to review papers too frequently. If you have had a change in status and wish to either be
removed or added to the list, please contact the Society Business Office.
References
1. S. Keshav, “How to Read a Paper”
University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
2. UC Davis English Department Composition Program
3. Libby Allison, Director, M.A. Program in Technical Communication,

Department of English Texas State University
4. Alan Meier, 2003. “How to Review a Technical Paper”

University of California, Berkeley
40
SAMPLE CONTENT CRITERIA REVIEW
TECHNICAL PAPER EVALUATION WORKSHEET
CandidateID#: _________________________________________________________________
EssayTitle: ____________________________________________________________________
Review for paper content:
Based upon a minimum of two readings, it is my opinion that this paper deserves the following rating based
on the CONTENT criteria listed below:
CRITERIA Excellent Good Acceptable Poor Unacceptable
1. Knowledge of Estimating
5 4 3 2 1
2. Demonstration of
5 4 3 2 1
Estimating Experience
3. Composition, Spelling, 5 4 3 2 1
Grammar and Style
4. Coverage of Important 5 4 3 2 1
Elements
5. Cohesiveness and
Continuity 5 4 3 2 1
6. Overall Technical Merit 5 4 3 2 1

Subtotal of Points
Thus, _______ total points of the possible 30 points have been earned.
A minimum of 18 points is required to accept this paper for purposes of granting Certification to the
candidate.
Reviewer Comments: (use additional sheets if necessary)

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
Reviewer:________________________Date: ________________Phone: __________
NOTE: Please return a copy of this sheet to a Certification Board Representative or the SBO and keep a
copy for your records.
************************************************************************************
****************FORWARD TO: Standards Board Editor of the “Estimating Today”
Papers that score 24 points or higher will be considered for publishing in Estimating Today.
41

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43

44
How to Estimate the Cost of a Sanitary Sewer Installation in an Urban Environment
By Daniel George Frondorf
May 24, 2008
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I hereby acknowledge that the contents of this Technical Paper belong to the Society, which
is free to publish or otherwise make such use of all or portions of the Paper as it sees fit. If
applicable, I have designated by the use of 1/4" wide black tape on the right margin opposite
the text or reference materials, those portions that are considered proprietary, and not
available for the Society's use or publication. I have obtained and attached all documentation
of releases required by copyright laws for all non-original materials incorporated or
referenced in this Paper.
____________________________________________
Daniel George Frondorf
May 24, 2008
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Daniel George Frondorf is a Sitework Construction Estimator in Cincinnati, Ohio. Dan’s career
began as a Zoning Plans Examiner for a local municipality after obtaining an AAS in Civil
Engineering Technology from Cincinnati Technical College. He moved on to two roadway
contracting firms before starting an estimating consulting practice, concentrating on Sitework.
Today he is very active in ASPE chapter 38, and is a faculty member of ASPE chapter 38
strategic partner ACI - Allied Construction Industries (a local contractor’s benevolence
organization, dedicated to providing contractors education, safety training, and workforce
development), presenting seminars on Construction Estimating to ACI’s members.
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CPE Candidate No. 0308035
May 2008
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Table of Contents
Section 1 Introduction page 3
Section 2 Types of Methods of Measurements page 4
Section 3 Project Specific Factors to Consider in Takeoff and Pricing page 6
Section 4 Overview of Labor, Material, Equipment, Indirect Costs
and Approach to Markups page 10
Section 5 Special Risk Considerations page 11
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Section 6 Ratios and Analysis – Testing the Bid page 11
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Section 7 Other Pertinent Information page 12
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Section 8 Sample Plan and Profile View page 14
Section 9 Sample Trench and Restoration Detail h page 15
Section 10 Sample Estimate – Takeoff and Pricing Sheets page 16

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Section 12 Terminology-Glossary page 20

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Section 1 Introduction
This technical paper is intended to provide the reader with a general understanding of performing
professional construction estimating services as they relate to the installation of sanitary sewer
systems that are built within an existing urban environment. Such installations are typically more
challenging than new work performed in a new residential or commercial development or
subdivision, or an installation built within previously undisturbed ground. Conflicts with existing
utilities, buildings, roadways, and with the humanity occupying these features requires the
Construction Estimator to factor much more than just the costs of labor, materials, and equipment
into a cost estimate.
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Main CSI (Construction Specifications Institute 2004 MasterFormat) Division
Division 33 Utilities
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Main CSI (Construction Specifications Institute 2004 MasterFormat) Subdivisions
Subdivision 33 30 00 Sanitary Utility Sewerage Piping

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Subdivision 33 39 00 Sanitary Utility Sewerage Structures
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Brief Description
The author will discuss the requirements of the Construction Estimator to review the plans and
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specifications, to perform a scope of work review, to perform quantity takeoffs, to compile all
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direct and indirect costs, and to factor all of these into a cost estimate using production rates that
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reflect the challenges inherent to working in an urban environment. Sample takeoffs and cost
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estimates will be included. The paper will be presented from the point of view of a Construction
Estimator who is preparing a Prime, or General Contract bid, as opposed to the point of view of a
subcontractor or material supplier. It is assumed that the plans and specifications have been
prepared to the level of CD (Construction Documents) by the project’s civil designer. These
projects are typically bid as unit priced contracts rather than as lump sum contracts. The
contractor provides a unit price to quantities established by the owner or engineer, and the
extended prices are all summed to determine an overall contract amount. Payments are then
made at the stipulated unit prices as the work proceeds for the quantities completed.
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Section 2 Types of Methods of Measurements
Quantity takeoffs in utility construction measure several components, including excavated
trenching spoils by CUB YD; pipe bedding and backfill by CUB YD or TON; specialty backfills
(such as low density or “flowable” backfill) by CUB YD; piping material by LIN FT; fittings, such as
tees, saddles, wyes, and bends by EACH; structures such as manholes by VERT FT; pavement
restoration by SQ FT or SQ YD; lawn and yard restoration by SQ YD; topsoil for lawn restoration
by CUB YD; connections to existing structures (aka taps) by EACH; and traffic maintenance
typically by LUMP SUM.
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Items requiring cubic yardage or tonnage measurements require 3 dimensional takeoffs, and the
Construction Estimator can typically find these dimensions on the plan and profile sheets and on
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the typical sections or details that go along with them. Length and depth of trench can be found
on the plan and profile pages; trench widths are shown on the typical sections or details. Often
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the width of the trench for a utility installation is dictated by the local governing agency or utility
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authority. Usually these are minimum trench widths. However, the Construction
Estimator must factor several important items into his or her determination of actual trench width,
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including but not limited to safety; soil types; type of equipment needed to achieve the required
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depth of excavation; proximity to adjacent existing utilities, pavement, railroad tracks, buildings,
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fences, or any other undisturbable item. Once accurate lengths, depths, and widths can be
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determined, the 3 required dimensions can be used to calculate excavated trench volumes, pipe
bedding and backfill, and specialty backfills. If a bedding or backfill item, such as granular fill, is
sold by the TON, the Construction Estimator will utilize the appropriate conversion factor from
CUB YD to TON to determine the quantities required to be purchased. It is necessary for the
Construction Estimator to factor waste into the calculations. Trench spoils may swell when
excavated and loaded onto a truck, making the actual volume of material to be handled more
than the “bank” yardage as measured from the plans. Shrinkage of backfill may occur depending
on the material placed as it is compacted, and is also subject to spillage loss as material is
handled between the delivery trucks, the stockpile, and the trench itself.
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Piping material is sold in differing lengths depending on the type of material, so it is important to
measure each run of pipe between each utility structure. In this way, the numbers of pipe
sections, or “sticks”, for each run can be determined, and the appropriate whole number of pipe
sections, or “sticks” can be included in the cost estimate. For example, a pipe run of 8” PVC SDR
35 pipe between 2 manholes is 94 LIN FT. This pipe is sold in 13’ sections. The required number
of sections, or “sticks”, is 94/13 = 7.23, or 8. Rounding up to the next whole number is required
because the pipe supplier will not sell .23 of a section or “stick”.
Pipe fittings required for connections or bends are simply counted on the plan and profile sheet.
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Manholes and other structures are determined by their VERT FT, and their locations and depths
in VERT FT can be found on the plan and profile sheets. This is also true for connections, or taps,
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of the new sewer pipe to an existing pipe or structure. While the count, or number (EACH) of
these connections is important, so is their depth in VERT FT and width in FEET, both needed to
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calculate the quantity of excavated trench spoils and backfill that must be factored into the cost
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estimate. Pavement and lawn and yard restorations are typically measured in AREA (2
dimensional) quantities, such as SQ FT, SQ YD, or ACRE (an area measurement containing
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43560 SQ FT).
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Very often sanitary sewers installed in urban settings are constructed within, around, or adjacent
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to vehicular and pedestrian traffic. This is one of the more challenging aspects of urban utility
work. Costs to re-route, detour, barricade, or otherwise separate construction from vehicles and
people are usually accounted for and paid for by the LUMP SUM, wherein all of the costs
required (signage, pavement markings, traffic control devices, temporary pavement, etc..) are
factored into a single pricing item. Usually all of this work must comply with the current edition of
the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. This is the official publication of the Federal
Highway Administration and is yet another document with which Construction Estimators must
familiarize themselves.
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Section 3 Project Specific Factors to Consider in Takeoff and Pricing
Small Quantities vs. Large Quantities
It is widely understood that projects involving larger quantities of materials have lower unit prices
than projects involving smaller quantities. On the larger projects, there is simply greater
opportunity to spread direct, indirect, and overhead costs than on a smaller project. This certainly
applies to utility construction, even in an urban setting. A project involving 4000 LIN FT of pipe
and 24 structures will have lower unit pricing per LIN FT for the pipe and per EACH for the
structures than a project having only 240 LIN FT and 2 structures.
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Geographic Location
Costs can be impacted by several factors of geographical origin. Material availability varies
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regionally and so do their costs; project location can affect the costs of material delivery and
trucking associated with the proximity of the jobsite to the supplier location or waste site in the
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case of excavated spoils that must be disposed of legally; labor availability varies regionally and
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so do its costs; in more northern regions the construction season for outside work such as utility
construction is much shorter than in all other regions; additionally, soil in northern regions is more
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subject to freezing and this fact alone can decrease production rates for trenching, driving unit
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costs up.
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Seasonal Effect on Work
Utility construction in temperate climates is more impacted during the colder winter months than
the hot summer months, but both extremes can contribute to variable production rates and
therefore estimated construction costs. Cold weather tends to slow construction by inhibiting the
efforts of man and machine, and by decreasing the ability of backfill to be compacted. Protection
of poured concrete must be provided in extreme cold, extreme heat, or in rainy conditions.
Visibility and safety are compromised during rainy or cloudy days; the surfaces of equipment and
tools are less stable when covered with water or ice; construction schedules can be negatively
impacted by poor weather, or even by simply seasonal weather. The Construction Estimator has
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a duty to make himself or herself aware of the project’s schedule as part of their bid review, and
must incorporate the likely seasonal conditions that will be in place during that schedule and the
additional costs that result, into their cost estimates.
Special Conditions Affecting Utility Installations in an Urban Environment
Because of the nature of installing a new sanitary sewer (or any utility) in an urban environment,
there are several additional factors that must be accounted for by the Construction Estimator. Not
the least of these is the presence of existing utility lines (water, gas, sanitary, storm, steam, etc…)
that must be protected, crossed, shored, supported, exposed, re-directed, raised, lowered, or
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otherwise dealt with by the installation of the new sanitary sewer. Sometimes, but not always,
these existing utilities are indicated on the plan and profile sheets and give the Construction
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Estimator an idea of what is necessary to deal with the existing while installing the new utility.
Sometimes only a general idea of the location of the existing utility is given, with or without a
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depth. In these cases the contractor is required by either plan notes or specs or both to expose,
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locate, and protect the existing utility. The costs for such an operation is typically considered
incidental to the cost of the new sanitary sewer. The Construction Estimator must use his or her
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own experience and judgment (as well as a site inspection) to determine how to handle such a
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requirement, which may require specialty subcontractors known as “potholers”, or vacuum

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excavation specialists who use a combination of compressed air, high pressure water, and a long
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vacuum hose to extract soil from the vicinity of existing utilities. These specialists can use this
non-digging excavation technique to safely expose existing utilities without conventional
excavation equipment (backhoes, etc...). Once exposed, these utilities can be protected and hand
dug around to allow the new installation of the sanitary sewer. It is not difficult to understand how
this process can slow down the installation process and cause lower production rates.
Requirements such as vacuum excavation are not typically required in working in virgin soil or
previously undeveloped ground, and production rates on sites such as these are much faster.
The Construction Estimator must also be aware of other existing conditions, such as adjacent
pavement or buildings that possibly require shoring or other protection during new sanitary sewer
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installation. In many urban areas and in older cities, it is not uncommon to discover abandoned
railroad tracks and ballast under existing pavement, forgotten remnants of streetcar systems and
inter-urban railroads. It is not unusual to discover building foundations extending into the right of
way of a street, or similar unforeseen circumstances. When a pipe crew is handling or dealing
with requirements arising from these kinds of challenges presented by the urban environment,
they are not laying pipe or building structures, and therefore productivity slows.
Because most urban areas have already been heavily developed, civil engineers and utility
agencies often have no choice but to locate new utilities within the street pavement. This causes
the need for not only costly pavement restoration, but usually the need for costly low density or
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flowable backfills to be placed within new pipe trenches. Working in the street also requires traffic
maintenance. Productivity slowdowns due to traffic backups can be caused by the construction
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itself (pipe crews waiting for dumptrucks to return empty in the trenching process). Because of the
close proximity of human life, either in vehicles or on foot or within buildings adjacent to the new
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sanitary sewer installation, the risk of harm increases to include not just the construction
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operations themselves, but to the human element nearby. Safety is always something the
Construction Estimator should take seriously and account for, but it has an even greater
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importance on these kinds of projects because the sites are occupied by people, who must be
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protected. When constructing a new building, the occupation of it by the owners and their human
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resources occurs after construction is complete. Not so with utility installations in an urban
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environment. Because of the need to account for and protect humans, many utility agencies and
governments have working hour restrictions and noise limits that must be adhered to by the
contractor. These further limit productivity and even the choices in equipment available to perform
the work, especially if night time work is required. Many cities have morning and afternoon rush
hour periods during which no traffic restrictions are permissible (for example 6-9 AM and 3-6 PM,
effectively reducing the workday to 6 hours, or from 9AM to 3PM). This further limits productivity.
Additionally, available space for staging, job trailers, office trailers, material storage, and
temporary facilities can be significantly limited. Many contractors must work out deals with private
property owners to make space available nearby or within the project site. Maintaining and
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restoring these sites are good examples of indirect costs that must be accounted for by the
Construction Estimator.
Lastly, the Construction Estimator must become thoroughly familiar with any geotechnical report
issued as part of the bidding documents. These reports contain important information regarding
the types of soil that the contractor can be expected to encounter during excavation and
trenching. Limestone, shale, hard clays, and glacial till soil types can slow down trenching, while
granular and sandy soils tend to cave in and can require additional excavation or expensive
shoring to maintain the integrity of the trench. Soil types and trench depth are also important
safety factors as well, and have an impact on productivity by possibly requiring trench sloping,
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safety overdigs, or possible trench box protection for the pipelaying crew. It is important to
remember that whatever is excavated must be backfilled, and if granular backfill from an offsite
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source or flowable backfills are required, these can add significant costs to a sanitary sewer
project (flowable backfill is required by many jurisdictions under pavement or within rights of way
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because it virtually eliminates future settlement of the utility trench area). The geotechnical report
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may possibly also identify any possible hazardous materials or interferences caused by existing
features.
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In summary, there are SIGNIFICANT factors affecting construction costs for a sanitary sewer
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installation in an urban environment beyond simply small vs. large quantities, geographical
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location, and seasonal effect on the work. The congested, surgical nature of working in an urban
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setting is ripe with challenges not seen in working in a previously undeveloped setting.
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Section 4
Overview of Labor, Material, Equipment, and Indirect Costs and Approach to Markups
Labor and equipment costs are calculated on a per hour basis and are typically determined based
on and include the local prevailing wage rates (Davis Bacon wages) that are usually required on
public works projects in most jurisdictions. Because of the need to account for so many things
other than pipe laying, we will calculate labor and equipment costs in this estimate based on 10
hour days, and to keep our crews working a 40 hour week, we will use a 4 day work week. Our
crew in this example will be comprised of the following :
Cost Item Quantity Unit Unit Cost Total Cost
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Rubber Track Backhoe incl. Operator 1 HOUR $150.00 $150.00
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Rubber Tire Loader incl. Operator 1 HOUR $125.00 $125.00
Tandem Axle Dumptruck incl. Operator 4 HOUR $75.00 $300.00
Trench Box – Shoring 1 HOUR $25.00 $25.00
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Labor – Pipelayer 2 HOUR $55.00 $110.00
Labor – Laborer 4 HOUR $50.00 $200.00
Supervision – Foreperson 1 HOUR $65.00 $65.00
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Pickup Truck 2 HOUR $15.00 $30.00
Tool Truck 2 HOUR $20.00 $40.00
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TOTAL HOURLY COST $1,045.00
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TOTAL DAILY COST based on a 10 HOUR DAY $10,450.00
Material costs are based on the takeoff quantities and will include whatever waste factors are
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included by the Construction Estimator. It is imperative to include the costs of freight on board
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(FOB) to the project site or to wherever the contractor plans to stage the project. Supplier
quotations are solicited from pipe and fitting manufacturers and dealers, as well as from precast
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concrete suppliers for structures. Other supplies for which pricing must be obtained include
granular bedding, granular and flowable backfills, and steel castings for the tops of the structures.
In addition to labor, equipment, and materials, subcontract quotations must be solicited from
subcontractors to provide the following services : surveying and layout; asphalt pavement
restoration; concrete pavement restoration; topsoil, lawn, and sod restoration; pavement
markings if any; traffic control and maintenance specialty subcontractors; and pavement
sawcutting.
There are additional indirect costs that will be incurred, such as permits, performance bonding,
temporary facilities, and taxes (if applicable). Lastly, the contractor must calculate his or her own
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managerial and in house costs related to project supervision and overhead attributable to this
particular project.
After all costs have been calculated, all production rates reasonably estimated, and all indirect
and overhead costs factored in to the total cost estimate, the management of the contractor will
decide what approach to take with respect to markup, or percentage of the project’s costs that it
will hope to generate as profit (defined as total revenue less total costs). If the contractor has a
heavy current backlog of work, he or she may decide to put a larger margin of profit into a project.
If the contractor needs work, the markup decision can be little if any. Projects with higher risks
and less competition tend to generate higher markups, while those with low risk and several
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bidders will tend to bid more competitively, and therefore have lower markups among the bidders.
Markup decisions are highly variable and usually rest with the top management of each
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contracting firm.
Section 5 Special Risk Considerations

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As previously discussed, installing sanitary sewers in an urban environment has no shortage of
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special risks. Such installations are typically more challenging than new work performed in a new
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undisturbed ground. Conflicts with existing utilities, existing buildings, existing roadways, and with
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the humanity occupying these existing features requires the Construction Estimator to factor
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much more than just the costs of labor, materials, and equipment into a cost estimate. Slower
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production rates, scarcity of staging areas, exposing and locating existing utilities, dealing with
traffic, shoring and protecting existing utilities and buildings, expensive pavement restorations,
and extensive use of expensive flowable backfill are all factors that contribute to the complexity of
installing sanitary sewers in an urban environment.
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Section 6 Ratios and Analysis – Testing the Bid
Because all sanitary sewer projects installed in an urban environment are unique, and because
they are inherently full of special risk considerations, it is not always possible to develop rules of
thumb that apply uniformly to all projects. However, it is always good estimating practice to
maintain a database of historical costs from both field-built projects as well as estimated but
unbuilt projects (of which every Construction Estimator will have a plethora). The unit costs,
methods, and other particular information contained in these projects or estimates will prove
invaluable as new projects are considered and new bids prepared and submitted. Consistency,
accuracy, and completeness will be the result, and better bids will be submitted over the long haul
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if the contractor realizes that the estimating work performed today on an unsuccessful bid will
likely pay off tomorrow or further down the road because of the practices and research put into
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today’s estimate.
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Section 7 Other Pertinent Information
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The Construction Estimator must be aware that many local governments and utility authorities
require bidders to achieve either voluntary or mandatory participation goals with respect to small,
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disadvantaged, or minority owned businesses serving as subcontractors on their construction

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projects. Additionally, several jurisdictions are requiring bidders to adopt company wide policies
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regarding drug and alcohol use by employees, or actually require drug testing itself as a condition
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of contract award. It also has become more common that jurisdictions are requiring certain levels
of OSHA (Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration) safety training for
superintendents, such as the OSHA 10 hour and the OSHA 30 hour courses. While matters such
as these do not directly add cost to a construction project, they do so indirectly and must be
accounted for by the Construction Estimator. Finally, all contractors must avail themselves of the
free utility location services provided in each state by the individual “call before you dig” services
offered by the member utilities. These services usually require a minimum of 48 hours notice
before starting excavation, giving the service provider the opportunity to field locate existing
underground utilities that may be encountered during a particular construction project. These
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services save dollars and lives every year by informing contractors of potential underground
conflicts. This is an invaluable service to the public and to the contractor community, and do not
add cost to a construction project.
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Section 8 Sample Plan and Profile View
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Figure 1
On this page we see a partial plan and profile (Figure 1) of a typical urban sanitary sewer
installation. Please note on the profile (lower) portion the existing utility lines that will be
encountered during the installation of the new sanitary sewer, which are also visible on the plan
(upper) portion, which also indicates the new sanitary sewer within the paved area as well as the
paving restoration limits. The interference with traffic on this project is clearly seen as the pipe run
between MH1 and MH2 cuts diagonally across the intersection of the 2 streets.
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Section 9 Sample Trench and Restoration Detail
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Figure 2
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On this page we see a typical trench – restoration detail (Figure 2), NOT drawn to scale, that
instructs the contractor how to backfill the new sanitary sewer trench as well as the asphalt
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pavement above it. Note that while compacted granular bedding is required below the new pipe,
and compacted granular haunching is required on the sides of the new pipe, no dimensions for
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the depth or width are given. A 12” dimension is given for the compacted granular backfill above
the pipe. Above that a flowable controlled density fill is required up to the level of the pavement
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subgrade, above which 10” of asphalt base (in 2 – 5” layers) is specified, then finally the surface
restoration that includes grinding and resurfacing the top 2” with asphalt surface mix.
The Construction Estimator will determine the required trench depth from what is shown on
Figure 1. The width of the trench will be determined by factors from a variety of sources, including
but not limited to the geotechnical report (for soil types), bucket width of the trackhoe or other
excavation equipment needed to reach the depth shown on Figure 1, the requirements of OSHA
for a safe trench type at the needed depth, and the proximity of existing utilities, buildings,
pavements, or other features that must be protected.
Once the trench width is calculated the volumes of excavated spoils and backfill quantities can be
determined. These volumes must be calculated also for each structures (manhole, cleanout,
junction box, etc..).
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Section 10 Sample Estimate – Takeoff and Pricing Sheets
(Please note that
these takeoffs are
NOT based on the
plans seen in
Figure 1 and 2)
SANITARY STRUCTURE TAKEOFF
Rim Invert Depth

Name Type Elevation Elevation VERT FT
SMH 1 48" Standard MH 848.06 841.62 6.44
SMH 2 48" Standard MH 844.76 838.26 6.50
SMH 3 48" Standard MH 841.65 834.98 6.67
SMH 4 48" Standard MH 838.79 832.48 6.31
SMH 5 48" Standard MH 838.02 831.88 6.14
EX. MH Ex. 54" MH 836.64 828.66 7.98
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SANITARY CONDUIT TAKEOFF Avg.
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Size
From Structure To Structure (inch) Quantity Unit Type Depth
SMH 1 SMH 2 12 168 LIN FT SDR 35 6.47
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SMH 2 SMH 3 12 163 LIN FT SDR 35 6.58
SMH 3 SMH 4 12 130 LIN FT SDR 35 6.49
SMH 4 SMH 5 12 30 LIN FT SDR 35 6.22
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SMH 5 EX. MH 12 161 LIN FT SDR 35 7.06
Total 12 652 LIN FT SDR 35
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TRENCH VOLUME TAKEOFF for 12" Pipe

Assumes 4' wide vertically sided trench utilizing full height shoring box trench protection in silty clay
soil
Allows for 12" of overdig below the pipe for bedding material
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Trench width of 4' allows for 18" of haunching on either side of

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pipe
Trench Trench Average Trench Trench
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Length Width Depth Volume Volume

LIN FT FEET VERT FT CUB FT CUB YD
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652.00 4.00 7.57 19732.13 730.82
PIPE VOLUME TAKEOFF for 12" Pipe

Assumes 4' wide vertically sided trench utilizing full height shoring box trench protection in silty clay
soil
Allows for 12" of overdig below the pipe for bedding material
Trench width of 4' allows for 18" of haunching on either side of
pipe
Area of Cylinder = Pi (3.14)*radius squared
Volume of Cylinder = Area of Cylinder * Length
Trench Pipe Pipe Pipe Pipe Pipe
Length Diameter Radius Area Volume Volume
CUB
LIN FT FEET VERT FT SQ FT CUB FT YD
652.00 1.00 0.50 0.79 511.82 18.96
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GRANULAR BEDDING, HAUNCHING, and PIPE COVER TAKEOFF for 12" Pipe
Assumes 12" granular bedding, 12" granular pipe cover, and 18" granular haunching either side of
pipe
Total depth of granular backfill is 36"; total width of granular backfill is
48"
Trench Granular Granular Granular Pipe Granular Granular
Length Depth Width Volume Volume Volume Volume
LIN FT FEET FEET CUB FT CUB FT CUB FT CUB YD
652.00 3.00 4.00 7824.00 511.82 7312.18 270.82
Net Net
FLOWABLE BACKFILL TAKEOFF for 12" Pipe

Assumes flowable backfill above granular backfill to 12" below trench top to allow for pavement or topsoil surface
Trench Average Trench Granular Flowable Flowable Flowable Flowable
Length Depth Depth Depth Width Volume Volume
LIN FT VERT FT FEET FEET FEET CUB FT CUB YD
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652.00 6.57 3.00 3.57 4.00 9310.56 344.84
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12" below surface
COST ESTIMATE for SAMPLE 12" SANITARY SEWER PROJECT
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Assumptions
Production Rate for Pipe Installation in an Urban Area is 100 LIN FT per DAY
652 LIN FT / 100 = 6.52 or 7 DAYS
Production Rate for Structure Installation in an Urban Area is 1 EACH per DAY
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5 EACH / 1 = 5 DAYS Total Crew Days = 12
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Pavement Restoration : 4' wide * 652 LIN FT * 12" asphalt = 97 CUB YD
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Pipe Sticks at 13' length, per run :

168 LIN FT 13
163 LIN FT 13
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130 LIN FT 10
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30 LIN FT 3
161 LIN FT 13
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Total Pipe Sticks 52

at 13' each = 676 LIN FT actual pipe quantity required
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At each structure and tap - allow 12 CUB YD Granular Backfill and 6 CUB YD Flowable
backfill
Subcontractor items are the quoted prices
Material items are suppliers quotes and include FOB but exclude sales tax
Cost estimate continues on next page
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(Please note that this
cost estimate is NOT
based on the plans
Cost Estimate seen in Figure 1 and 2)
Hours or Unit
Cost Item Quantity Units Days Cost Total Cost
Rubber Track Backhoe incl. Operator 1 10 12 $150.00 $18,000.00
Rubber Tire Loader incl. Operator 1 10 12 $125.00 $15,000.00
Tandem Axle Dumptruck incl. Operator 4 10 12 $75.00 $36,000.00
Trench Box – Shoring 1 10 12 $25.00 $3,000.00
Labor -
Pipelayer 2 10 12 $55.00 $13,200.00
Labor - Laborer 4 10 12 $50.00 $24,000.00
Supervision – Foreperson 1 10 12 $65.00 $7,800.00
Pickup Truck 2 10 12 $15.00 $3,600.00
Tool Truck 2 10 12 $20.00 $4,800.00
Precast Structures >6'<8' tall 5 EACH n/a $672.60 $3,363.00
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Steel Frame and Grate 5 EACH n/a $424.80 $2,124.00
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Tap Existing Structure depth = 7.98' 1 EACH n/a $800.00 $800.00
Granular Backfill incl. 12% waste
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(structure) 81 CUB YD n/a $16.40 $1,328.40
Flowable Backfill incl. 5% waste
(structure) 34 CUB YD n/a $58.20 $1,978.80
12" SDR 35 PVC Sanitary Conduit 676 LIN FT n/a $6.72 $4,542.72
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Granular Backfill incl. 12% waste (pipe) 304 CUB YD n/a $16.40 $4,985.60
Flowable Backfill incl. 5% waste (pipe) 363 CUB YD n/a $58.20 $21,126.60
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Sawcutting (trench L*2) at 8" deep 1304 LIN FT n/a $2.60 $3,390.40
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Asphalt Trench Restoration Subcontractor 97 CUB YD n/a $238.60 $23,144.20

Potholing Subcontractor - expose utilities 1 8 4 $324.00 $10,368.00
Law Enforcement Officer with Cruiser 2 8 12 $45.75 $8,784.00
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Surveying and Layout Subcontractor 1 8 4 $224.00 $7,168.00

Subtotal $218,503.72
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17.5% Overhead and Internal Costs $38,238.15

2% Performance Bonding $4,370.07
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12.5% Profit $27,312.97

Total Bid Amount : $288,424.91
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Section 11 Copy of Topic Approval Letter from ASPE Certification Board
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Section 12 Terminolgy-Glossary
Construction Specifications Institute 2004 MasterFormat

The 2004 revised edition of the Construction Specifications Institute directory of construction
specification itemizations used extensively throughout the construction industry by designers and
builders to classify, itemize, and arrange specifications (the actual instructions on how to build a
particular part of an overall project). Editions previous to 2004 contained only 17 divisions; the
2004 MasterFormat contains over 40.
Davis-Bacon Act of 1931

This is a United States federal law which established the requirement for paying prevailing wages
on public works projects. Most federally, state, and locally funded public works projects in the
United States are subject to this act. Prevailing wage rates for public projects are usually
determined by each state’s Department of Labor.
Flowable Backfill
A product used to backfill pipe trenches that is composed of various ingredients including but not
limited to sand, water, portland cement, fly ash, and other agents. Flowable Backfill is delivered in
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conventional ready mix concrete trucks and is also typically sold by the cubic yard. Because it is
flowable, it is able to enter every open space within a trench and therefore virtually eliminates
future settlement of a trench caused by incomplete backfill with other products or incomplete
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compaction. Flowable backfill does not require compaction, and often “sets up”, or hardens,
rapidly, enabling faster trench closings and sooner opening of a trench to traffic.
Pipe Bedding
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That part of backfill around an installed utility pipe that surrounds and supports the bottom of the
pipe.
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Pipe Haunching
That part of backfill around an installed utility pipe that surrounds and supports the sides of the
pipe.
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Shoring
Any method of supporting an existing feature within on upon the ground that is disturbed by
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excavation. This can include steel trench boxes to prevent a vertical wall of a trench or shaft from
collapsing; drilled steel, concrete, or wood piers with wood or concrete lagging panels to support
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exposed trench walls; temporary wood or concrete posts or supports to hold up an existing pipe
exposed by excavation; these supports can be temporary or left in place after excavation.
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68
GENERAL ESTIMATING KNOWLEDGE EXAMINATION
Preparation for the General Estimating Knowledge (GEK) Exam is a necessity, since most
Estimators will not be intimately familiar with all the topics addressed. The bibliography, which
follows, should be reviewed thoroughly. The applicant should establish milestones to assist in
proper study, so that steady progress is made during the preparation period. It is not wise to
delay the process until the last moment, because of the volume of material and its depth.
The Standard Estimating Practice (SEP) Manual, under continuing development by the American
Society of Professional Estimators, is the foundation upon which the Certification Testing Program
is constructed. Much of the material included in the exam is taken from this manual. It is
recommended that the applicant be thoroughly versed in its contents. The SEP Manual may be
purchased from the ASPE Bookstore at www.aspenational.org. The Society also offers, The GEK
Study Guide. The Study Guide should be of particular help to subcontractors sitting for this exam.
The candidate will be given four (4) hours to complete the GEK examination. No scheduled
breaks will be included in this time period. No substantive questions of the proctor will be
allowed. If the candidate finds an ambiguous or incomplete question, he will state his concerns on
the Comment Sheet. The candidate should work his way through the examination as quickly as
possible, answering all questions he knows before returning to questions about which he may be
unsure. There are no trick questions on the examination; however, the questions must be read
carefully. A hasty interpretation may be costly.
The examination consists of approximately 500 multiple choice, true/false, matching questions
and a number of problems. Examinations will be scored by a Grading Service Provider.
Examinations will not be returned, and scores will not be published. The candidate will be
informed of the pass/fail status only. If the candidate fails, he must successfully retake the
examination on the next test date. Failing to do so will result in termination from the program.
The questions in the GEK cover a broad range of topics. An experienced estimator has had to deal
with business concerns, accounting, insurance and bonding, contract negotiations, and project
management. All of these will be addressed in the GEK. See the list of GEK examination Topics
at the end of this section.
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SUGGESTED GEK BIBLIOGRAPHY
The following text materials may be useful in preparing for the GEK examination.
1. Standard Estimating Practice, The American Society of Professional Estimators, 2525 Perimeter
Place Drive, Ste. 103, Nashville, TN 37214. (Available from the ASPE Online Bookstore)
2. General Estimating Knowledge (GEK) Study Guide, The American Society of Professional
Estimators, 2525 Perimeter Place Drive, Ste. 103, Nashville, TN 37214. (Available from the
ASPE Online Bookstore)
3. "General Conditions of the Contract for Construction", (AIA #201, latest edition), The American
Institute of Architects (available at any AIA chapter or the AIA website).
4. Construction Dictionary, National Association of Women in Construction, Greater Phoenix,

Arizona Chapter #98, PO Box 6142, Phoenix, AZ, 85005.
5. The Building Estimator's reference book, Frank R. Walker Co., 5100 Academy Dr.,
Lisle, IL 60532, phone 1-800-458-3737.
6. Construction Contracting, Richard H. Clough, John Wiley and Sons, One Wiley Drive,
Somerset, NJ, 08873
7. Construction Project Management, Richard H. Clough and Glenn A. Sears, John Wiley and
Sons, One Wiley Drive, Somerset, NJ, 08873
8. Construction Law in Contractor's Language, McNeill Stokes, McGraw Hill Book Company,
P.O. Box 400, Hightstown, NJ 08520.
9. Means Scheduling Manual, F. William Horsley, Robert S. Means Company, Inc.,

100 Construction Plaza, Kingston, MA 02364.
10. The Use of CPM in Construction, Associated General Contractors of America (contact any
local AGC office).
11. Bidding for the General Contractor, Paul J. Cook, Robert S. Means Company, Inc.,
100 Construction Plaza, Kingston, MA, 02364.
12. Estimating for the General Contractor, Paul J. Cook, Robert S. Means Company, Inc.,
100 Construction Plaza, Kingston, MA, 02364.
This list is not exhaustive, and, except for the ASPE Standard Estimating Practice Manual and
the GEK Study Guide, no endorsement of these publications is intended.
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GEK EXAMINATION TOPICS
General Estimating Knowledge questions and problems are drawn from the following categories
of fundamental topics. The applicant may familiarize himself with the subject matter by
studying the suggested GEK Bibliography.
1.0 FUNDAMENTAL TOPICS

1.01 Business Management 3.0 PROJECT MANAGEMENT
1.02 Mathematics 3.01 Contracts
1.03 Units of Measurement 3.02 Subcontractor Selection,
1.04 Blueprint Reading Performance & Financial Condition
1.05 Specifications - Division 1-16 3.03 Cash Flow Management
1.06 Bid Documents 3.04 Not used
1.07 Ethics 3.05 Submittals
1.08 Computer Applications 3.06 Project Close Out
1.09 Reference Manuals 3.07 Procurement
1.10 Definitions 3.08 Pay Estimates
1.11 Miscellaneous 3.09 Claims
1.12 Construction Law 3.10 Arbitration
3.11 Labor Relations
2.0 ESTIMATING PROCEDURES & 3.12 Supervision
COST CONTROL 3.13 Manpower
2.01 Scheduling 3.14 Equipment
2.02 Bonds 3.15 Architect/Engineers
2.03 Types of Estimates 3.16 Construction Management
2.04 Site Conditions 3.17 Safety
2.05 Bid Day Procedures
2.06 Pricing Labor, Material, & Equipment 4.0 OTHER AREAS OF INTEREST
2.07 Subcontractors 4.01 Appraisers and Financial Institutions
2.08 Buyout 4.02 Not Used
2.09 Estimate Format 4.03 Not Used
2.10 Quantity Survey 4.04 Suppliers/Distributors/Manufacturer
2.11 Bid Strategy
2.12 Value Engineering
2.13 Conflicts in Bid Documents
2.14 Errors
2.15 Insurance and Taxes
2.16 Permits and Fees
2.17 Profit
2.18 Risk Analysis
2.19 Inclusions/Exclusions
2.20 Developing Cost Codes
2.21 Historical Costs
2.22 Unknowns
2.23 Contingencies
2.24 Discounting
2.25 Not used
2.26 Change Orders
2.27 Design/Build
2.28 Turnkey
2.29 Conceptual Estimating
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GENERAL ESTIMATING KNOWLEDGE (GEK)
SAMPLE TEST
1. T F Working capital required for a business is never proportional to sales volume.
2. T F The “accrual basis of accounting” is a system of record keeping which

recognizes income and expenses as they are incurred and as they relate to
specific periods of time.
3. T F The income and expense statement shows the results of operations for a given period; the
balance sheet shows the financial condition at a given time.
4. T F Assets plus liabilities equals net worth.
5. T F When a project is completed and the cost of the project is close to the cost
given in the estimate the estimator may assume that all phases of the project
went well.
6. T F Where the owner acts as his own contractor, the subcontractors are considered to be
original contractors for purposes of the lien laws.
7. As the volume of sales decreases, the need for working capital usually:
A. Decreases
B. Increases
C. Remains the same
D. Doubles
8. A contractor is bidding a job for which he has estimated his total direct cost (field cost) to be
$15,500. He knows his overhead percentage is 21% of direct cost (based on current expense
statements and experience) and he wants to make a net profit of 8% of total cost on this
project. What must the bid for this project be (to nearest $10)?
A. $19,990
B. $20,260
C. $20,550
9. Give the formula for converting cubic feet to cubic yards.

A. CF/9
B. SF/9
C. CF/27
D. CF x 27
10. Calculate the number of gallons required to apply a 10-mil thick liquid coating to 937
square feet of nonporous material. Assume one gallon will cover 400 square feet, 2 mil
thick. Round to the nearest gallon. _______________
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11. Calculate to the nearest thousandths of an hour (0.000) required for the installation of an
item if the installation time is 16 minutes. ____________
12. Calculate the cost per square foot (to the nearest cent) of material applied 1.5" thick if the
material weighs 68 lbs. per cubic foot and cost $283.00 per ton. _____________
13. Calculate the lineal foot cost (to the nearest cent) of material that has a weight of 1.502
lbs. per lineal foot, using a waste factor of 15%, and cost of $512.50 per ton.
_____________
The following five questions are based on the following contract information:
“FBNFIRM” was awarded a subcontract by “SIU Contracting” in the amount of $175,000.00.

This amount is broken down into three different buildings on the same site. The percentage for
each building is as follows:
Building No. Percentage

1 35%
2 40%
3 25%
Retention is held by “SIU Contracting” based on the following schedule:
* work in place - 10% retention

* stored material - 20% retention
* after the project is 75% complete for “FBNFIRM”, retention is reduced to a total of 5% for
work in place.
Note: The answers you calculate in this portion of the exam may be required in the
solution of other questions in this portion of the exam.
14. “FBN” has a labor/material ratio of 45/55. Based on this information the material costs for
Buildings 1, 2, and 3 are:
A. Building #1 material costs are $61,250.00

Building #2 material costs are $70,000.00
B. Building #1 material costs are $33,687.50

C. Building #1 material costs are $27,562.50

D. None of the above.
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15. During the first month “FBN” had all of the material on site and properly stored for
Building #1. How much retention was held by “SIU” for this month?
A. $5,512.50
B. $3,367.85
C. $6,737.50
D. $12,250.00
16. During the second month no work was done by “FBN”. However, a change order was
issued to “FBN” in the amount of $5,000.00 to install owner furnished equipment in
Building #2. The revised contract amount is now $180,000.00 and the revised building
labor breakdown is now:
A. Building #1 labor costs are $27,562.50
Building #2 labor costs are $36,500.00
B. Building #1 labor costs are $27,562.50
C. Building #1 labor costs are $61,250.00
D. None of the above.
17. In “Architectural Scale”
A. If 1/4" equals 1'-0 what does 1/8" equal?

1. 4"
2. 6"
3. 4-1/2"
4. 3"
B. If 3/8" equals 1'-0 what does 1/4" equal?

1. 6"
2. 8"
3. 18"
4. 14'
C. If 1/2" equals 1'-0" what does 2" equal?

1. 3'-0"
2. 4'-0"
3. 1'-6"
4. 3'-6"
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D. If 1" equals 1'-0" what does 1/4" equal?
1. 3"
2. 4"
3. 4'
4. 2'
E. If 1-1/2" equals 1'-0" what does 1/4" equal?
1. 2"
2. 4"
3. 6"
4. 6-1/2"
18. T F Plumbing and electrical drawings are diagrammatic only.
19. T F The work of a specialty contractor or sub-contractor may be shown or specified in any part
of the drawings and specifications.
20. T F It is the general contractor’s responsibility to advise subcontractors that an

addenda have been issued.
21. Elements of the contract documents, per AIA Form A201 General Conditions of the
Contract for Construction, include (choose at least four):
A. Agreement
B. General & Supplementary Conditions
C. Drawings
D. Specifications
E. Addenda
F. Modifications including change orders and field orders.
22. Contractor’s duties, defined by AIA Form A201, “General Conditions of the Contract for
Construction,” include (choose at least three):
A. Being responsible for design errors of A/E
B. Direct supervision of the work with full-time superintendent
C. Securing and paying for building permit
D. Checking plans and specs for code compliance
E. Preparation of schedule
F. Jobsite safety
23. T F Procedures for settlement of damages, liens, assignments, and disputes are
a part of the general conditions or supplementary general conditions.
24. T F Value engineering always reduces the cost of a project.
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25. T F Conflicts in bid documents should be ignored during the bidding process.
26. If a conflict in bid documents is discovered during bid stage, the estimator should:
A. Notify the architect immediately.
B. Wait until the contract is signed before “discovering” the conflict.
C. Wait until the affected work is to be performed before “discovering” it.
D. All of the above.
E. None of the above.
27. Errors in bid preparation, which may be acceptable by an owner or his agent for bid
withdrawal without penalty, include errors in:
A. Addition
B. Line item extension (multiplication)
C. Line item omission
D. All of the above
E. None of the above
28. Which of the following types of insurance are normally carried by the project owner during
construction of the project?
A. Workmen’s Compensation and Fire Insurance
B. Fire and Theft Insurance
C. Theft and Workmen’s Compensation Insurance
29. T F Workers’ Compensation, Employer’s Liability, Fire, Extended Coverage,

Vandalism, Comprehensive General Liability, and Malicious Mischief are
types of insurance required for all bid proposals.
30. In most states, Workers’ Compensation & General Liability must be carried by:
A. General Contractor
B. Subcontractor
C. Sub-subcontractor
D. All of the above
E. None of the above
31. T F In most states, a construction contract, to be legally valid, must be in writing.
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32. Given the following data from a historical cost report:
Total Units in place: 100
Total journeymen hours expended: 7
Total apprentice hours expended: 3
What is the productivity rate achieved?

A. .1 MH/Unit
B. 10 Unit/MH
C. .01 MH/Unit
D. .07 MH/Unit
E. .03 MH/Unit
33. T F The specific requirements for record document submittal are indicated in the
project specifications.
34. T F Method of Interim and Final Progress payments for the project are stipulated
in the General or Special Conditions of the Job Specifications.
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GENERAL ESTIMATING KNOWLEDGE EXAM
SAMPLE TEST ANSWER SHEET
1. False 18. False
2. True 19. True
3. True 20. False
4. False 21. A, B, C, D, E
5. False 22. B, E, F
6. False 23. True
7. A 24. False
8. B 25. False
9. C 26. A
10. 12 Gallons 27. D
11. 0.267 Hours 28. B
12. $1.20 29. False
13. $0.44 30. D
14. B 31. False
15. C 32. A
16. A 33. True
17. A.2 34. True

B.2
C.2
D.1
E.1
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DISCIPLINE SPECIFIC TEST (DST)
Recognizing the importance of also evaluating the estimator's proficiency in his own trade or specialty, the
Board of Trustees directed the Certification Board to prepare discipline specific testing materials for
inclusion into the examination process. In order to accomplish this task, the Certification Board assigned
Section leaders to oversee development of testing materials for major MasterFormat divisions. The
Discipline Specific Test consists of eight (8) hours of questions and problems. Taken together with GEK,
this test becomes the comprehensive examination originally envisioned by the Certification Board.
Each DST is structured so that an individual that does not have at least five years of experience
estimating that particular trade, could not pass the exam.
The problem portions of the tests are, in effect, "mini-estimates". You are given plans and specifications,
along with other relevant data, asked to perform a quantity survey, and to price the survey.
If there is not currently a completed test in a candidate’s discipline, the candidate must write and
submit 100 Questions and 2 Problems with 50 responses each, for their discipline.
The following Discipline Specific Tests are completed:
General Building Construction - Questions cover CSI Sections 1 - 14, with some emphasis on Divisions
22, 23 and 26.
Electrical - Questions and Problems cover all aspects of Division 26 00 00.
Mechanical - HVAC/Piping - Questions and Problems cover all aspects of Div. 23 20 00 with emphasis on
Mechanical Piping Systems.
Mechanical - HVAC/Sheetmetal - Questions and Problems cover all aspects of Div.

23 30 00 with emphasis on Mechanical Air Distribution Systems.
Concrete - Questions and Problems cover all aspects of Division 03 30 00.
Drywall Systems – Questions and Problems cover all aspects of Division 09 20 00.
Painting – Questions and Problems cover all aspects of Division 09 91 00.
Plumbing – Questions and problems cover all aspects of Division 22 00 00.
Roofing – Questions and Problems cover all aspects of Division 07 50 00.
Earthwork – Questions and Problems cover all aspects of the following: Grading, Excavation and Fill,
Embankment and Fill, Sub grade and Roadbed, Soil Stabilization.
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The following is a list of Discipline Specific Tests that are under development.
Bases, Ballasts, Pavements and Appurtenances

Questions and Problems cover all aspects of the following: 002740 Flexible Pavement, 022770 Curbs and
Gutters, 02775 Sidewalks
Fire Protection/Sprinklers
Questions and Problems cover all aspects of Division 15300
Structural Steel
Questions and Problems cover all aspects of Division 05100 & 05500
Piped Utilities/Underground Utilities

Questions and Problems cover all aspects of Division 02500 and 02700
Masonry – Questions and Problems cover all aspects of Division 04000.
Misc. Metals & Ornamentals – Questions and Problems cover Division 05500.
Rough Carpentry – Questions and Problems cover Division 06100.
Finish Carpentry, Millwork – Questions and Problems cover Division 06200.
Aluminum Glass & Glazing – Questions and Problems cover Division 08400.
Windows – Questions and Problems cover Division 08500.
Elevator – Questions and Problems cover Division 14200.
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Discipline Specific Test
(1.4 General Construction)
Sample Test and Answers

As with the General Estimating Knowledge Exam, preparation is necessary, since most
General Construction Estimators will not be intimately familiar with all the topics addressed. The
applicant should establish milestones to assist in proper study, so that steady progress is made
during the preparation period. It is not wise to delay the process until the last moment, both
because of the volume of the material and its depth.
The Standard Estimating Practice Manual (SEP), under continuing development by the
American Society of Professional Estimators, is the foundation upon which the Certification Testing
Program is constructed. Much material included in the exam is taken from the manual; it is
recommended that the applicant be thoroughly versed in its contents.
The candidate will be given eight (8) hours to complete the DST Questions and
Problems. No substantive questions of the proctor will be allowed. If the candidate finds an
ambiguous or incomplete question, he will state his concerns on the Comment Sheet. The
candidate should work his way through the examination as quickly as possible, answering all
questions he knows before returning to questions about which he may be unsure. There are no trick
questions on the examination; however, the questions must be read carefully. A hasty interpretation
may be costly. Some questions depend upon information generated in the answers to other
questions, and extreme care should be taken with such items.
The examination consists of multiple choice, true-false, matching questions and a number of
problems. The exact number of questions and problems will be determined by the difficulty of the
mix. The subject matter of the 1.4 General Construction test is balanced to reflect a sampling from
each of the sub-specialties and focuses a heavy concentration on General Conditions, Site work,
Concrete, Carpentry, and Steel.
Examinations will not be returned, and scores will not be published. The candidate will only be
informed of the pass/fail status.
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GENERAL CONSTRUCTION - Sample Test
Division 1 - General Requirements
1) T F According to Instructions to Bidders (AIA Document A701) prime bidders may

exclude certain Alternates listed on the Bid Form.
2) You have received a bid of $650,000 from a Subcontractor who clarified that if a
bond were required, the bid amount would be increased by $9,750. What is the
bond rate percentage to the nearest 1/10th percent?
A) 2.0%
B) 1.3%
C) 1.5%
D) 1.8%
3) T F According to AIA 201 the owner is not obligated to furnish to the contractor
reasonable evidence that financial arrangements have been made to fulfill the
owner's obligations under the contract.
4) A form of bid security executed by the bidder as principal by surety is a

_______________ bond.
A) Payment
B) Performance
C) Bid
D) Security
Division 2 - Site Work
5) The amount of loose fill material required to backfill a trench 9' x 90'x 3',
assuming 15% swell factor is:
A) 90 CY
B) 104 CY
C) 95 CY
D) 127 CY
6) T F A contour line is a line connecting points of equal elevation above or below a

referenced point of known elevation.
Division 3 - Concrete
7) T F Splicing #6 longitudinal reinforcing bars in grade beams forty (40) bar diameters
requires a lap of 30 inches.
8) The labor costs per cubic yard for placing concrete in 6" thick foundation walls
will be ________________ 12" thick walls.
A) more than
B) less than
C) the same as
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Division 4 - Masonry
9) T F The masonry subcontractor is responsible for pouring the grout into bond beam
and lintel blocks above masonry openings under normal trade practices.
10) The actual length of a modular brick unit is:

A) 3 5/8"
B) 7 5/8"
C) 8"
D) 8 5/8"
Division 5 - Metals
11) T F Structural steel work is normally priced by the ton whereas misc. metals are
priced by the pound.
12) A 22'-0" piece of American Standard Channel designated C10 x 30 weighs:

A) 220 pounds
B) 660 pounds
c) 300 pounds
Division 6 - Wood & Plastics
13) If 2 1/2 MBF of 2" x 6" x 20'stock lumber is ordered, how many pieces will be
delivered?
A) 45
B) 90
C) 125
D) 150
14) T F A specification calling only for "wood preservative treatments" would require
simply a brush coat of preservative on the jobsite.
Division 7 - Thermal & Moisture Protection
15) The "R" value of insulation materials is a rating of:
A) required thickness
B) density
C) moisture resistance
D) thermal resistance
16) A triangular-shaped piece of wood placed at the intersection of horizontal and vertical
surfaces of a roof is called a______.
A) Cant
B) Coping
C) Sleeper
D) Sole Plate
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Division 8 - Doors & Windows
17) T F Hollow metal doors with vision lites are furnished from the supplier with glass
installed.
18) A strip fastened to the floor beneath a door is a:
A) Door Bottom
B) Threshold
C) Sweep
D) Drip
Division 9 - Finishes
19) Gypsum board containing fibrous glass reinforcement with a greater fire resistance is
known as Type____.
A) F
B) X
C) G
D) Z
20) T F Gypsum wallboard should be applied in lengths to fit walls and ceilings with a
maximum of butt-end joints.
Division 10 - Specialties
21) T F Supports for ceiling-hung toilet partitions are normally specified with the toilet
partitions.
22) The term for multiple levels of metal lockers is:
A) Stacks
B) Levels
C) Tiers
D) Modules
Division 11 - Equipment
23) T F Cubicle Curtain Tracks are usually specified as medical equipment.
24) Built-in and free-standing equipment used in retail and service stores is termed
_______________.
A) Commercial
B) Mercantile
C) Ecclesiastical
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Division 12 - Furnishings
25) T F Interior plants and planters are considered Landscaping in Division 2.
26) Manufactured Casework is generally specified as _____________.

A) Medical Equipment
B) Furnishings
C) Millwork
Division 13 - Special Construction
27) T F Piping associated with Pool equipment as specified in Division 13 is the

responsibility of the plumbing contractor specified in Division 15.
28) Automatic fire detection, suppression and warning systems are NOT specified in
Division ________.
A) 13
B) 15
C) 16
D) 11
Division 14 - Conveying Systems
29) T F Scaffolding that becomes part of a completed project is considered a Conveying

System in Division 14.
30) The two common types of elevators are electric traction and ________.
A) Pneumatic
B) Manual
C) Direct Drive
D) Hydraulic
Division 15 - Mechanical
31) The cooling capacity of refrigeration equipment is often expressed in _________.
A) Tons
B) Cubic Feet
C) Gallons
D) Liters
32) The cooling capacity of refrigeration equipment is often expressed in:
A) tons
B) cubic feet
C) gallons
D) liters
85
Division 16 - Electrical
33) T F Temporary power and lighting, unless noted otherwise, is responsibility of the
electrical contractor.
34) Electrical rate of flow is measured in _________.
A) Ohms
B) Watts
C) Volts
D) Amperes
********************************************************************************************
35) Sample Problem:
Footings
Footings Schedule Designations Quantity Size
F1 10 each 4'-0 x 4'-0 x 2'-0 deep
F2 8 each 8'-0 x 5'-0 x 2'-0 deep
F3 6 each 5'-0 x 5'-0 x 2'-0 deep
A) Compute the volume of concrete in CF for all footings.

B) If we use a 5% material Waste factor, how may 9 CY ready-mixed concrete truck
loads will be required?
C) If all footings must be formed, what contact area of forms will be fabricated and
erected on the jobsite?
A)_______________________________
B)______________________________
C)______________________________
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Discipline Specific Test
General Building Construction
Sample Test Answer Sheet
1) True 21. False
2) (C) 1.5% 22. (C) Tiers
3) False 23. False
4) (C) Bid 24. (B) Mercantile
5) (B) 104 CY 25. False
6) True 26. (B) Furnishings
7) True 27. False
8) (A) more than 28. (D) 11
9) True 29. True
10) B 30. (D) Hydraulic
11) T 31. (A) Tons
12) B 32. A
13) C 33. False
14) F 34. (D) Ampers
15) D 35. a) 1,260 CF

b) 6 each
16) A c) 976 SF
17) F
18) B
19) B
20) False
87
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Instructions for Examinee
General Instructions:
1. Obtain your test materials from the Proctor.
2. Confirm that you have a complete set of test materials: Test Booklet, Answer Sheets, Instruction Sheet, and
Comment Sheet.
3. Speak to no one other than the Proctor once the materials are distributed.
4. Do not ask questions of the Proctor about the exam subject matter; the ability to read and follow instructions is
part of the exam.
5. Print your name and candidate number on each answer sheet. Only the candidate number must have the scanner
dots filled in completely.
6. The comment sheet is an important means of assisting the Certification Board in evaluating the exam material.
The value of your comments may be factored into your final score. You may keep the comment sheet at hand
during the test to identify problem items as they become evident. Write a brief note describing your concern.
Please keep in mind that the tests are timed so that not too much time is given to comments.
The Examinee Shall:
A. Leave the examination area only with the Proctor’s permission
B. Furnish writing instruments and pocket calculator
C. Use only the forms and blank sheets provided by the Proctor
D. Not remove any test-related materials from the exam area
E. Obey the Proctor’s instructions.
At Completion of Exam:
A. Place the following in your transmittal envelope
1. Answer Sheets
2. Work Sheets (Scratch Paper)
3. Comment Sheet
4. Examinee Instruction Sheet—Signed and Dated (see below)
5. Sign your name across the seal of the transmittal envelope
(Do not place exam book in the transmittal envelope)
AN EXAMINEE VIOLATING ANY OF THE INSTRUCTIONS, FORFEITS THE RIGHT TO AN
EXAMINATION REVIEW.
The Examinee agrees to accept the grade and the decision of the Certification Board as final. Examination papers will be
retained by the Board and will not be discussed with the examinee.
I hereby certify that I have read the above instructions and agree to abide by them.
Signed: _____________________________________________________ Date: ______________
Candidate #: _____________________________________________________________________
Printed Name: ____________________________________________________________________
89
90
Instructions for Proctors Administering GEK and DST Certification Exams

ALL PROCTORS FOR THE CERTICIATION EXAMS MUST BE CPEs. An alternate Proctor
should be selected and scheduled to substitute for the original Proctor in case of an emergency.
General Instructions:
1. Upon receipt of the testing materials from the Society Business Office, open the envelope containing exam
packets; verify that you have a test packet for each candidate. Contact the Business Office regarding any
discrepancy.
2. The Proctor is to provide a quiet testing room with adequate lighting, air conditioning, and comfortable exam
chairs and desks. Interruptions by outside sources or persons are to be prevented so that candidates are not
distracted.
3. The GEK exam will be four (4) hours in duration. The DST exam will be eight (8) hours of Questions and
Problems. The candidate may choose to take a coffee or rest room break; however, the candidate must complete
the exams within the time allocated.
4. Remind candidates to read all instructions thoroughly and to follow the instructions.
5. Distribute the exam packet to candidates and establish when the testing period will end. It is the sole
responsibility of the Proctor to begin and end the testing period on time and to maintain the time limits.
Prior to Beginning the Exam:

A. Have the candidates print their name and candidate number on each answer sheet. The candidate number is
entered in the spaces marked “Identification Number”. Have the candidates to fill in the corresponding scanner
dots below the candidate number. This is necessary for grading.
B. The Proctor must advise the candidate that the test will be graded by an optical scanner. All answers must be
fully penciled and any changes must be completely erased. Individual answer sheets are enclosed for each
section of the test. For example: GEK test answer sheet “Part A” is for questions A-1 through A-190. The “Part
B” Answer Sheet is for questions B-1 through B-229 and so on. The same applies for the DST exam.
C. Advise examinees of the importance of their comments. Refer to and read “Instructions for Examinees”, item 6.
D. No questions shall be asked by the examinees regarding test criteria. If an obvious printing error has
been made on a question, the Proctor may review and announce the correction to all candidates.
Proctors must make a written report to the Certification Board for any errors and announced corrections.
Completion of the Exam:
A. When the exam period is over, each candidate should place the following into the transmittal envelope
which was included in the candidate’s exam packet:
1. Answer Sheets
2. Work Sheets (Scratch Paper)
3. Comment Sheet
4. Examinee Instructions; Signed and Dated
The complete transmittal envelope is to be turned in to the Proctor.
B. The Candidate and the Proctor MUST SIGN their names across the seal of the envelope. DO NOT put the
exam book in the transmittal envelope. The completed GEK and DST Exam Books (all pages) are to be returned
with the transmittal envelope.
C. After the exam has been completed, gather all exam envelopes and books; repackage them securely. Return the
secured packets to the Society Business Office the first business day following the exam. Return using a
shipping service that has a tracking system.
91
D. Please return all exam packets promptly. The exam results may be delayed if not received in time to be batched
and sent to the grading center.
E. The Chapter Certification Chair must provide written explanation of any known reasons for a candidate not
taking the exam as scheduled.
THANK YOU FOR ASSISTING ASPE AND YOUR LOCAL MEMBERSHIP

BY PROCTORING THESE EXAMINATIONS.
Note: Chapters are responsible for all expenses incurred in performing their duties at a chapter level.
Return packets to:
ASPE—Certification
Nashville, TN 37214
92
DST QUESTIONS AND PROBLEMS GUIDELINES
If the DST is not available for the specific discipline of the candidate, the candidate is required to
fulfill the discipline specific evaluation requirement by submitting a minimum of one hundred
(100) discipline specific questions and a minimum of two (2) discipline specific problems, with fifty
(50) questions each. Problems are to be “mini” estimates. The questions and problems are to meet
the guidelines established for DST questions and problems as follows in this section.
If a DST is offered for the specific discipline of the candidate, the candidate is required to take the
DST, and is not permitted to submit DST Questions and Problems. Review the section on
Discipline Specific Test Development contained in this guide to view the exams that are available
during this Certification Cycle.
The DST question and problem portion of the Certification Process is helping the Society to develop
new DST’s for use by future CPE candidates. Many of the questions and problems that are
submitted will be formatted for use in these exams. The candidate should recognize when
preparing the questions and problems that he is helping the Society attain the goals established for
the Certification Program, and can take pride in the accomplishments for helping to meet these
goals.
PROCESS
The candidate shall submit all of the questions and problems in the discipline that the candidate is
seeking for DST Certification. The following is a list of the DST Classifications available for
receiving DST Certification by submitting DST questions and problems:
* 02450 Foundation and Load Bearing Elements

Driven Piles, Bored Piles, Caissons, Foundation Walls, Anchors and Instrumentation and
Monitoring
* 02500 Piped Utilities/Underground Utilities

Questions and Problems cover all aspects of Division 02500 and 02600
* 02700 Bases, Ballasts, Pavements and Appurtenances

Bound Base Courses, Unbound Base Courses and Ballasts, Aggregate Surfacing, Flexible
Pavement, Rigid Pavement, Cement Concrete Shoulders, Paving Specialties, Curbs and
Gutters, Sidewalks, Unit Pavers, Flexible Pavement Coating and Micro-Surfacing, Athletic
and Recreations Surfaces and Porous Pavement.
* 02900 Planting (Landscaping)

Transplanting, Plant Preparation, Lawns and Grasses, Exterior Plants, Plant Maintenance
and Planting Accessories.
* 05000 Metals
Structural metal framing, metal joists, metal decking, metal fabrications, ornamental
metals, expansion control.
93
* 06000 Woods and Plastics
Rough carpentry, wood framing, sheathing, wood decking, heavy timber construction,
wood-metal systems, glued laminated construction, wood trusses, prefabricated structural
wood, finish carpentry, millwork, cabinets, plastic laminate, paneling, wood treatment,
architectural woodwork, casework, wood siding and trim.
* 07600 Flashing and Sheet Metal

Preformed roof and wall panels, composite building panels, cladding and siding, sheet
metal roofing, and sheet metal flashing.
* 08000 Doors
Metal doors and frames, wood and plastic doors and frames, finish hardware, weather-
stripping and seals.
* 08400 Entrances and Storefronts

Aluminum entrances and storefronts, automatic entrances, revolving entrances, metal
windows, special windows, glazing, glazed curtain walls.
* 09300 Flooring, Tile and Terrazzo

Ceramic tile, quarry tile, paver tile, cement terrazzo, precast terrazzo, wood flooring,
resilient flooring, resilient base and accessories, fluid-applied flooring, carpet, carpet tile,
wall carpet, special flooring systems, floor treatment.
* 13900 Fire Suppression

Wet-pipe sprinkler systems, dry-pipe sprinkler systems, pre-action sprinkler systems,
deluge sprinkler systems, foam-extinguishing systems, dry chemical extinguishing
systems, standpipe and hose systems.
* 14000 Conveying Systems

Dumbwaiters, elevators, moving stairs and walks, lifts, material handling systems, hoists
and cranes, turntables, scaffolding systems, transportation systems.
* 15200 Process Piping
If the candidate wishes to submit DST questions and problems for a discipline that is not
identified in this listing, the candidate shall submit a request, in writing, to the Society Business
Office prior to beginning preparation of these. The Certification Board will review the request
and will contact the candidate to advise the decision of the Board concerning the request.
TERMINOLOGY
The candidate must understand that composition; spelling and grammar used in writing the
questions and problems will be an important factor in considering pass or fail. Geographical or
regional terms and practices should not be used, nor should trade or manufacturers' names be
used, unless considered an industry standard. Use generic terms when describing specific products
(i.e., E.I.F.S. instead of Dryvit). Keep in mind that persons responsible for evaluating the text or
taking the exam that uses the text may be located in different geographic areas and may not be
94
familiar with the candidate's regional terminology or trade practices. Outside assistance to ensure
the use of correct sentence structure, proper grammar and spelling is encouraged.
It is extremely important for the candidate to double check all of the calculations used in arriving at
the answers to the problems. The plans and sketches submitted along with the questions should be
clear and complete. It is imperative that all necessary dimensions are given and are correct. If the
drawings can be done in a CAD type format then converted into a pdf file, all the better. If the
problems have errors in them, they will be returned for correction.
REFERENCES
The candidate is required to provide nationally recognized references for each question submitted.
Regional trade practices are not to be used. The candidate must use a minimum of three (3)
different reference manuals to complete all of the questions.
SUBMITTAL PROCEDURES
The DST questions and problems must be submitted to the Society Business Office prior to the
date as listed in the Certification Program Schedule section of this guide.
Submit one (1) original unbound copy and three (3) unbound photocopies of the DST questions and
problems. Along with the paper copies, submit one (1) CD copy, of the questions and problems, in
Word format. The candidate must submit these via certified mail or another signed delivery
service. The candidate must retain a copy of the questions and problems for the purpose of
completing revisions in the event the questions and problems fail to meet acceptance.
DST questions and problems submitted after the scheduled date shall be held without action until
the date listed in the schedule for revised DST questions and problems re-submittal. This means
the submitted questions and problems would only receive one opportunity to pass, and would
miss the opportunity to resubmit the questions and problems if found not acceptable for the
purpose of certification.
If the candidate fails to submit the DST questions and problems, the candidate may continue in
the certification process by entering the next cycle. Any of the certification requirements that have
been met would not need to be repeated. If the candidate does not enter into the next cycle, the
certification process has ended. The candidate may reapply for Certification during another cycle;
and all requirements would need to be completed, whether previously approved or not, including
a new Application for Professional Evaluation and fee.
95
REVIEW PROCEDURES
The Certification Committee is responsible for overseeing the review and evaluation process. A
judgment of "acceptable for the purpose of certification" is mandatory to satisfy this element of the
program.
DST questions and problems will be reviewed and verified by CPEs knowledgeable in the
discipline being submitted. The examiners shall be verifying that the submitted questions and
problems meet the guidelines established; spelling, grammar, professional appearance,
composition, verifiable references, and required elements stated in this section.
The Certification Committee shall notify the candidate by the date indicated in the Certification
Program Schedule that this portion of the process has been completed and accepted, if the
submitted DST questions and problems meet the guidelines and are accepted for the purpose of
certification.
If the submitted DST questions and problems do not meet the guidelines for acceptance, the
Certification Board shall notify the candidate of the deficiencies for revision and re-submittal by
the date as stated in the Certification Program Schedule section of this guide.
Revised DST questions and problems shall be resubmitted to the Society Business Office in the
same format and quantity as originally submitted. The date required for re-submittal shall be prior
to the date as stated in the Certification Program Schedule. The resubmitted questions and
problems shall be re-evaluated by the original examiner and must receive an "acceptable for the
purpose of certification" rating.
The candidate shall be notified if the resubmitted questions and problems have passed or failed by
the date indicated in the Program Schedule. If passing, the candidate will be notified that this
portion of the certification requirements has been completed. If deficient, the candidate may
continue the certification process during the next cycle. Any of the certification requirements that
have been met would not need to be repeated. If the candidate does not enter into the next cycle,
the certification process has ended. The candidate may reapply for Certification during another
cycle; and all requirements would need to be completed, whether previously approved or not,
including a new Application for Professional Evaluation and fee.
It is necessary for the candidate to pass all requirements of the Certification Program before the
candidate will receive the designation of Certified Professional Estimator.
96
REQUIRED ELEMENTS
Title Page
The Title Page shall contain only the following elements:
1. DISCIPLINE SPECIFIC TEST QUESTIONS AND PROBLEMS

2. The CSI designation and title of the discipline being submitted.
3. Name of the author.
4. Candidate number.
5. Date written (month and year).
Society Ownership Page

The Society Ownership Page shall contain only the following elements:
1. Society Ownership Statement.

The candidate MUST include the following statement, providing their name in typewritten
characters, signature and date:
"I hereby acknowledge that the contents of these questions and problems belong to the Society which is
free to publish or otherwise make such use of all or portions as it sees fit."
The Title Page and Society Ownership Page will be removed from the questions and problems
prior to review to insure the author's confidentiality.
Cover Page
The Cover Page shall contain only the following elements:
1. DISCIPLINE SPECIFIC TEST QUESTIONS AND PROBLEMS

2. The CSI designation and title of the discipline being submitted.
3. Candidate number.
5. Date written (month and year).
The candidate shall number the pages consecutively in the lower center of each page starting with
the cover page as page 1 and continuing through the balance of the pages. The Cover Page shall
remain with the paper through the review process.
Reference Page
The Reference Page shall give the complete title of the reference materials used to write the
questions; the author of each manual; the publisher; the edition number; and year published (See
the Exam Bibliographies for examples of this).
The candidate may use reference numbers in front of each manual on the Reference Page and
indicate this number at the answer reference. This will save the candidate from having to type the
name of the reference at each answer.
Questions Format
A minimum of one hundred (100) verifiable questions must be submitted in a multiple-choice
format, with a minimum of three (3) answer choices and a maximum of five (5) answer choices per
question. The correct answer must vary in location among the answer choices available (i.e., all the
correct answers cannot be choice "a."). Each multiple-choice question may only have one (1)
97
correct answer per question.
Begin by numbering each question (1, 2, 3...) in the left margin at the beginning of the question.
State the question in the body of the paper followed by the answer choices.
For Example – as below:
a. ____________________________
b. ____________________________
c. ____________________________
d. ____________________________
e. ____________________________
Note: The blank lines indicated above are representing the answer choices as furnished by the
candidate, not that the candidate is to leave blank lines.
In the right margin of the page, place the answer to the question followed by the reference
manual, the page number, section number and/or paragraph from which the information was
obtained.
For further assistance and clarification on the DST question format, see the sample DST question
page provided in this section, and review the GEK sample test provided in this guide.
Problems Format
The problems vary from the question format as stated above, as the problems relate specifically to
calculating quantities, production rates, unit prices and costs for completing an estimate based on
the information provided with the problem. Problems must be in an estimate format (labor,
equipment, materials, etc.)
A minimum of two (2) problems must be submitted. Each problem must contain a minimum of
fifty (50) multiple-choice quantity, cost, and production rate calculation questions. Problems
should be “mini” estimates.
Each problem shall be provided with a drawing or drawings of the work, details as required to
calculate the work, and an information page covering general information. Information such as
general notes, assumptions, factors, schedules, allowances, material and equipment costs, wage and
labor burden costs, production rates, sales tax rates, and so on, as necessitated to calculate the
correct answer.
NOTE: Do not use the same “plan” for each problem. A different “plan” is required for each
problem.
Number each problem at the top left corner of the page by designating:
(insert discipline) PROBLEM 1
Continue with this designation on each additional problem (2, 3, 4, etc.).
Begin numbering the questions for each problem in the left margin starting with 1 and continuing
numerically until reaching the next problem. Repeat this process for the next problem, starting
with the first question as number 1.
98
Below the question, give the answer choices in multiple-choice format. Each question must have a
minimum of three (3) choices to a maximum of five (5) choices.
In the right margin, give the correct answer to the question, followed by the calculation used to
achieve the correct answer.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Make the questions and problems specific to the discipline and less general in regards to other
trades.
Do not repeatedly use the same questions with slight modifications to them. Make the questions
and problems challenging.
Avoid the use of geographic, regional or trade practices. Be more specific based on nationally
accepted standards and methods.
The use of manufacturers and trade names is discouraged unless it is an industry standard.
Example - “Caterpillar Equipment” is a standard for earthwork, worldwide.
Check the composition, spelling and grammar used to write questions and problems. Be sure that
others will be able to understand the information being presented, and that assumptions would
not have to be made.
All of the information is required to be accurate and correctly calculated. The correct answer must
be provided in the question or problem information. If charts, schedules, graph, etc., from
published documents are needed to calculate the correct answer, this information must be
provided in the question or problem.
Provide answers to questions, which are clear and concise. Make sure there is only one correct
answer provided. Avoid conflicting statements or "trick" questions.
For problems, provide complete calculations to the answers so that the person evaluating these
can easily understand them.
It is advisable to submit more questions and problems than the minimum requirements in the
event some of the submitted questions and problems are not accepted.
Outside assistance to ensure the use of correct sentence structure, proper grammar and spelling is
encouraged. Many software programs offer spell checking, grammar checking and Thesaurus
tools for review of papers. Utilize others within your discipline to help review and critique the
questions and problems. If they can understand your points, then others should also be able to
understand.
SAMPLES
Sample questions and problem have been provided to help the candidate understand the format
and composition expected for submission. The candidate should review and utilize these as
guides when formatting their own questions and problems, but should make sure to include the
requirements as listed.
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DISCIPLINE SPECIFIC TEST QUESTIONS AND PROBLEMS
15300 - FIRE PROTECTION
JOHN DOE
#1194000
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NOVEMBER 1994
PLEASE NOTE: This is not a complete sample.

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SOCIETY OWNERSHIP STATEMENT
"I hereby acknowledge that the contents of these questions and problems belong to the Society
which is free to publish or otherwise make such use of all or portions as it sees fit."
_____________________
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John Doe
November 5, 1994
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DISCIPLINE SPECIFIC TEST QUESTIONS AND PROBLEMS
15300 - FIRE PROTECTION
#1194000
NOVEMBER 1994
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REFERENCES FOR QUESTIONS AND PROBLEMS
NFPA Pamphlet #12 1989 Edition

NFPA Pamphlet #13R 1989 Edition
NFPA Pamphlet #231C 1991 Edition
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Multi-Choice Questions:
1. On which type of system is a test connection not

required?
a. Wet Pipe System

b. Dry Pipe System Answer: d
c. Grid System Ref: NFPA #13 4-7.4.5
d. Deluge System
e. None of the above
2. The minimum area of sprinkle operation when a

system is hydraulically calculated is _______.
a. 1,000 sq. ft.
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b. 1,500 sq. ft. Answer: b
c. 2,000 sq. ft. Ref: NFPA #13 Fig. 5-2.3
d. 2,500 sq. ft.
e. None of the above
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03000 CONCRETE PROBLEM 1
GENERAL
Footings are formed. Measurement quantity is square foot of contact area. Top of footing is to be float
finished. Top of wall is to be trowel finished. Keyway shall be measured in lineal feet.
Lap factor for mesh and vapor barrier is 10%.
Stone subbase shrinkage factor is 20%. Conversion rate is 1.5 ton/cubic yard.
Sales tax on materials is 5.5%.
Concrete strength requirements, 3,000-psi footings and walls.
4,000 psi slabs on grade.
Concrete waste factors:
Footings 10% Walls 5% Slabs on grade 7.5%
WAGE RATES
Carpenter $15.50/hour Labor Burden 28%
Laborer $10.25/hour Labor Burden 25%
Cement Finisher $13.75/hour Labor Burden 25%
Iron Worker $17.25/hour Labor Burden 35%
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MATERIAL COSTS (excluding sales tax)
3,000 psi Concrete $50.00/cy Keyway $0.40/lf
4,000 psi Concrete $55.00/cy Stone $9.00/ton
Footing Forms $.50/sf 1/2" Exp. Jnt. $0.15/lf
Wall Forms $0.45/sf Vapor Barrier $0.02/sf
Point & Patch
Protect & Cure
EQUIPMENT
$0.05/sf Mesh
$0.02/sf Rebar
Q $0.06/sf
$475.00/ton
Crane for placing concrete $110.00/hour, including operator

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Wall pour rate 35 cy/hour
Slab pour rate 55 cy/hour
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Trowel machine for slab $0.02/sf

Loader $85.00/hour, including operator
Compactor $0.05/sf
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PRODUCTIVITY FACTORS (based on eight hour days)

Description Crew Productivity
Form Footings 2 carp/1 laborer 320 sf/crew day
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Form Walls 2 carp/1 laborer 350 sf/crew day

Place Concrete Footings 1 laborer 2 cy/hour
Place Concrete Walls 1 laborer 1.5 cy/hour
Place Concrete Slabs 1 laborer 2.4 cy/hour
Float Finish Footing 1 finisher 500 sf/day
Trowel Finish Wall 1 finisher 120 sf/day
Trowel Finish Slabs 1 finisher 650 sf/day
Point & Patch Wall 1 finisher 1,200 sf/day
Protect & Cure 1 laborer 5,000 sf/day
Keyway 1 carpenter 40 lf/hour
Expansion Joint 1 carpenter 200 lf/day
Stone Subbase 2 laborers 40 cy/crew day
Vapor Barrier 1 laborer 450 sf/day
Mesh 1 iron worker 2 hour/csf
Rebar 1 iron worker 200 lbs./hour
NOTES: Add labor burden to wage rates and sales tax to material costs.
106
03000 CONCRETE PROBLEM 1
Answer/Calculations:
1. The quantity of footing formwork is:

D. 536 sf
A. 635 sf
B. 280 sf Outside: (94+94+54+54) x 1' = 296 sf
C. 240 sf Inside: (80+80+40+40) x 1' = 240 sf
D. 536 sf 536 sf
E. 365 sf
2. The hours/units for footing formwork is:

E. .075 hour/unit
A. 1.5 hr/unit
B. .5 hr/unit (2 carp + 1 laborer) x 8 hrs./day = 24 hours
C. .05 hr/unit 24 hours/320 sf = .075 hr/unit
D. .75 hr/unit
E. .075 hr/unit
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3. The number of man-hours required to form
footings is: A. 40.2 hours
A. 40.2 hours 536 sf x .075 (hr/sf) = 40.2 hours

B.
C.
D.
47.6 hours
18.3 hours
30.4 hours
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4. The quantity of concrete required for the
footing is: C. 76.4 cy
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A. 59.6 cy (94+94+40+40) x 7' x 1 = 1,876 cf

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B. 95.2 cy 1,876 / 27 = 69.5 cy

C. 76.4 cy 69.5 x 1.10 (waste) = 76.4 cy
D. 48.8 cy
E. 20.9 cy
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5. The hours required to place the footing

concrete is: B. 38.2 hours
A. 44.5 hours 6.4 cy / 2 (cy/hr) x 1 laborer = 38.2 hours

B. 38.2 hours
C. 16.4 hours
D. 30.6 hours
E. 54.5 hours
6. The material unit cost for footing

concrete is: C. $52.75
A. $58.03 $50.00/cy x 5/5% (sales tax) = $2.75

B. $62.50 $50.00 + 2.75 = $52.75
C. $52.75
D. $50.28
E. $55.30
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CERTIFICATION RENEWAL PROGRAM
The construction industry changes continually and the Professional Estimator must be aware of
these changes and be able to evaluate their impact upon his trade.
As the title "Certified Professional Estimator" (CPE) comes into increased use, the architect/owner
is becoming increasingly aware of the importance of the CPE designation. We, as a Society, must
show the industry and the public that the construction estimator is a highly trained professional
who is responsible for the very survival of the company for which he works, the method by which
the Society has chosen to do this is the Certification program.
This program alone, however, is not enough. As "CPE" is a meaningful professional title, we must
be able to show other industry professionals that the CPE is an educated and motivated person
who maintains his level of knowledge through continued education and interaction with other
people in the industry. The method by which the Society has chosen to do this is the Certification
Renewal Program.
The Certification Renewal Program also encourages our members to remain active in the Society
and the construction industry. ASPE's strength comes from its active members. To have a
stronger voice in the future of the construction industry, we must have a large, active
membership. Encouraging our members to become CPEs and having a program, which rewards
them for participating in the Society’s activities, can help achieve these goals.
Eligibility
The member must have been previously certified and have maintained his/her membership in the
Society with all dues and fees paid for the three years prior to submitting his/her Certification
Renewal Application. Non-members must also participate in this program as it pertains to
accruing points for continuing education and other professional activities.
Certification Renewal Procedure
The CPE will complete a Certification Renewal Application, and submit the application to the
Society Business Office as explained in the renewal packet which is available on the ASPE website,
www.aspenational.org
Implementation
Each current participating CPE must apply for their certification renewal every three years. Any
CPE subject to this program will have three years, from the first August 1 after issuance of their
Certificate, to accumulate the 30 points required for continuing certification.
POINTS MUST BE EARNED FROM AT LEAST THREE (3) OF THE SCHEDULED LEVELS.
The applicant is responsible for accumulating all documentation for the point total and
transmitting it to the Society Business Office. Accumulate verifications annually to avoid
problems resulting from changing administrations. It is the responsibility of the CPE to obtain a
guarantee of delivery. It is recommended that the documentation be sent with a return receipt
requested to the Society Business Office or by a delivery service that provides a form of tracking.
109
Requirements for renewing certification may be modified from time to time. These modifications
may include additional categories and requirements. The Renewing Certification applicant,
however, will be granted points based upon the point schedule in effect at the beginning of the
applicant's Certification term.
CERTIFICATION RENEWAL PROCEDURES
The point accumulation for the Renewal Certification Program begins the first August following
your initial notification of having the CPE status. Your point dates will begin August 1 and ends
three years later on July 31. The point period runs concurrent with the ASPE fiscal year. Points are
not accumulated in the year of expiration.
For example:
Initial Certification:
 The candidate earned his initial CPE status on November 20, 2007.
 His point dates will be from August 1, 2008 to July 31, 2011
 The first expiration date for his Certification will be July 31, 2012.
First Renewal Cycle:

 The CPE submits his Renewal Application with point accumulation and
documentation for the initial point dates to the Society Business Office on January 1,
2012.
 The CPE is issued a new certificate with the expiration date of July 31, 2015.
 The point dates for this certification renewal cycle will be August 1, 2011 to July 31,
2014.
The Certification Renewal Application along with the appropriate fee shall be submitted to the
Society Business office by January 1 of the year of expiration.
The Renewing Certification Applicant is solely responsible for obtaining all signatures and
documentation supporting the application. Your Certification Renewal application should first be
submitted to your Chapter Certification Chair for review and signatures. The completed
application must be submitted to the Society Business Office (SBO) along with the appropriate fee.
The SBO will verify the application is complete and the National Certification Board will review
for approval. The CPE will be notified of any deficiencies. Once accepted by the Board, a new
certificate will be issued prior to the expiration date and will cover the next three years.
All terms and conditions of Certification Renewal, as listed above, will apply to each successive
three-year cycle.
110
Fellow CPE Certification Renewal Policy
Established per the Board of Trustees - 2008
Fellow CPEs make a difference by increasing the level of professionalism and ethical conduct of
the construction estimator.
The certification renewal policy was modified in 2008 for Fellow CPEs. Fellow Members of
ASPE that were certified under the Continuing/Renewal Program are required to submit a
renewal to maintain their CPE status.
The policy is as follows:

“The Certification Committee may determine that Fellow members (FCPE) who also
meet the criteria for LCPE status no longer need to submit paperwork criteria. Those
members will still pay the re-certification fee even though the re-certification process is
waived.”
Should a Fellow Member of ASPE not meet the requirements for Lifetime Status, the
complete renewal packet must be submitted with the standard renewal fee every three years in
order to maintain a certified status.
The certification renewal application is available online at www.aspenational.org; select the

Certification tab in the top menu; the Certification Renewal Packet is listed in the left hand menu
of the certification page.
Please feel free to contact the Society Business Office for assistance in determining Lifetime
qualifications.
111
Certification Reinstatement Policy
The Certification Board for the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE) hereby adopts the
following policies for allowing those estimators who have been granted the title “Certified Professional
Estimators” (CPE) to have the title reinstated should the estimator have the title revoked. This policy
applies to lapses not greater than six (6) months past the CPEs expiration date.
The members of the Society who have allowed their Certification to lapse for the following reasons may
be granted reinstatement provided the meet the requirements for reinstatement.
The CPE fails to apply for Certification Renewal in accordance with the Certification requirements.
Each CPE who was certified after 1988 or who agreed to be included in the Certification Renewal
Program if they were certified prior to 1988 is required to accumulate a total of thirty (30) points every
three (3) years. The methods by which these points are accumulated are stated in the Certification
Renewal Application. The Society Business Office (SBO) sends out to each CPE a reminder when the
proper forms and Certification Renewal fee are due. Should the CPE fail to submit the forms and
payment and have the documents approved, the title of CPE will be removed from the member’s files
and use of the term “Certified Professional Estimator” by the member is not allowed by the Society.
The member may be reinstated into the Certification program provided he/she submits the following
documents within six (6) months following their certification expiration date:
1. A formal written request asking for reinstatement. The request must explain in detail the reason
for the missed deadline for the submittal of the Renewal Application and fees. The request is to
be sent to the SBO.
2. Accompanying the request the member must also submit a current period Certification Renewal
Application and re-instatement fee.
3. The SBO shall forward to the Certification Board a copy of the request and forms for review.
4. The request will be voted on by the Certification Board. The request must be approved by a
simple majority of the Board.
A. If the Board approves the request the member will be notified by the SBO of the reinstatement and
the member will be restored his/her full rights and privileges as a CPE.
B. The CPE will be required to meet the point accumulation and payment of fees in accordance with
the previous schedule prior to loss of the CPE status.
Should the CPE fail to request reinstatement within six (6) month time frame following their expiration
date, the person shall be dropped from the CPE program and forfeit all rights and privileges associated
with the title Certified Professional Estimator.
If reinstatement can not be administered, the CPE may apply for a one time Amnesty (see Amnesty
policy for details).
The CPE fails to maintain membership in ASPE.

An estimator may be certified without membership in ASPE. Therefore, if the estimator continues to
meet the requirements of the Certification Renewal Program, he/she will be allowed to retain all rights
and privileges associated with the title CPE.
The CPE does not maintain a career in the estimating profession or in construction.
The CPE may continue to accumulate points required for the Certification Renewal without being a
professional estimator. Should the estimator fulfill the requirements in the time frame allowed, he/she
may retain all rights and privileges associated with the title CPE.
112
Certification One-Time Amnesty Policy
The Certification Board for the American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE) hereby
adopts a policy for granting amnesty to “Certified Professional Estimators” that have failed to
maintain the requirements of their Certification and been revoked and/or have been deleted. This
policy applies to lapses not greater than five (5) years from the CPEs expiration date.
Amnesty is defined as a pardon for acts of omission. These acts of omission shall include the
lapse of membership, failure to apply for certification renewal, personal illness, family medical
or maternity leave, being out of the country for work assignments or military service and
performing work assignments not related to estimating.
As applicable to the certification process, the Certification Board will offer those individuals a
one-time only amnesty. Amnesty may be granted by the board upon receipt of a written letter
requesting to be reactivated, stating the reasons for the lapses and accompanied by the current
certification renewal application and Amnesty fee.
The request for Amnesty will be considered and voted on by the Certification Committee and
must be approved by a simple majority of the Board.
Should the CPE status lapse be for a period of more than five (5) years, then the
Certification Committee may require the individual requesting amnesty to re-apply for
certification as a “Certified Professional Estimator” in lieu of being granted amnesty.
113
LIFETIME CPE STATUS
(Not Available To Non-Members)
Certification is a mark of distinction. Individuals certified by ASPE have taken the extra
step to demonstrate their professionalism by voluntarily submitting to the rigorous
certification process that includes demanding examinations, experience, and ethical
requirements.
Once certified, CPEs are required to maintain competence and fulfill ethical obligations.
Every three years they must acquire at least 30 points across three of nine categories
that reflect continued activity and growth in their profession. ASPE’s Certification
Renewal Packet offers tips on how to meet these requirements.
The National Certification Board implemented the Lifetime CPE designation for those
who have been certified and met all certification renewal requirements for four (4)
consecutive renewal cycles (certified for at least 15 consecutive years), and have been a
continuous member in good standing.
Applicants for Lifetime certification should apply as soon as they are eligible. The
application and fee should be forwarded to the Society Business Office for verification.
The application will then be submitted to the National Certification Committee for
approval.
A Lifetime CPE must continue to remain a member in good standing in the Society in
order to maintain the status of Lifetime. Once approved the CPE will be continually
enrolled in the Certification Program and no further renewal documentation will be
required of a Lifetime CPE.
Only those estimators who have fulfilled these criteria of the program can display the
Lifetime CPE designation.
NOTE:
Only those Member CPEs in the Certification Renewal Program are eligible for the Lifetime CPE Status.
114
Stamp and Seal Program
Once an estimator has met all the requirements of the Certification Program and is
granted CPE status, ASPE will authorize use of the official Stamp and/or Seal as a
“stamp of approval”.
The Stamp and/or Seal not only signify that the estimate provided is accurate and
reliable, but that the CPE stands behind his/her work. Only certified estimators who are
members of ASPE are eligible to purchase the Stamp and/or Seal.
The Stamp and Seal program is further explained in the application and user’s
agreement that is located on the National website at www.aspenational.org.
115
MANUAL OF STANDARD ESTIMATING PRACTICE (SEP)
A fundamental effort in organizing a professional Society must be defining standards of practice and ethics
expected of those seeking membership and participation in the Society.
For many years, the American Society of Professional Estimators has been the best-kept secret in the
construction industry. We are now dedicated to reversing that perception.
ASPE is an educational society comprised of construction estimators dedicated to improving the skills of
Estimators and the quality of estimating. Our members represent a broad cross section of the construction
industry as employees and owners of construction organizations. Many of our estimators and their
companies are also members of other organizations.
The single most important element that governs the degree of success of a construction organization is its
ability to prepare and submit fully detailed and accurate estimates for the completion of work on specific
projects. The professional estimator, utilizing acquired skills, and employing the professional ethics and
Standard Estimating Practice of the Society, is the key to the successful fulfillment of this vital element of the
industry.
An ASPE primary goal is to define and publish estimating practices that, when properly employed, will
produce reliable estimates in a uniformly recognizable manner. The Standard Estimating Practices are
developed and written by the Standards Board of ASPE and members of that Society. They are written in
the language of estimators to provide not only basic and fundamental guidance for estimators, but also to
define industry recognized Standards that are the basis for the Certification of the experienced estimators as
Certified Professional Estimators.
PURPOSE
Standard Estimating Practice is not intended as just another material and man-hour reference book. It is a
“how-to” manual to be employed as a powerful learning tool for the novice Estimator and an invaluable
guide for the experienced Estimator.
Standards, both published and proposed, are set forth in a professional, well-written manner; the how-to
that is fundamental is not developed to the ultimate level desired.
Truly representative Standards must have contributions from members of a broad cross-section of the
nation. Those areas of the country, which have not participated in development of Standards, may be
depriving industry recognition of legitimate practices peculiar to that specific region.
The Seventh Edition Standard Estimating Practice published in 2008 contains the development of practices
common to all disciplines and discipline specific practices.
This manual was also developed as an educational tool to be used in the training of new estimators, and to
provide a foundation for future ASPE publications on estimating.
Additional Standards development and the review and upgrading of existing Society Standards are a
continuing responsibility of ASPE.
The Standards Manual is the foundation upon which the certification-testing program is constructed. Much
of the material, which has been or will be included on the exam, is taken from this manual. It is
recommended that the applicant be thoroughly versed in its contents.
Orders for the Standard Estimating Practice manual may be placed at the ASPE online bookstore. Please
visit, www.aspenational.com.
116
APPENDIXES
A Application for Professional Evaluation
B General Estimating Knowledge (GEK) Study Guide Order Form
C Renewal Certification Application
D Lifetime CPE Application
E CPE Stamp and Seal Program Application
F Standard Estimating Practice Manual (SEP) Order Form
G Blank Estimating Forms
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Appendix A
Professional Evaluation
Application
119
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Certification Program
A PPLICATION FOR
P ROFESSIONAL
E VALUATION
Name__________________________________ Chapter No.________________
Date Received___________________________ Application No._______________
Payment Received___________________________ Discipline No._____________
CONFIDENTIAL
This form is the property of The American Society of Professional Estimators.
Use or reproduction of this form in whole or part without the express permission
of the National Certification Committee of the Society is prohibited.
Remit to: ASPE—Certification, 2525 Perimeter Place Drive, Ste. 103, Nashville, TN 37214
Fax: 615-316-9800
072909
121
Professional Evaluation Application Instructions
Read instructions carefully before completing this application. If additional space is required, type your information
on a blank white sheet of paper and attach it to the back of your application. Note the attachments at the section header.
Please label additional information accordingly. You may visit www.aspenational.org for additional information.
Section Instructions
General Fill in appropriate information. Abbreviations for Street, Avenue, Boulevard, and States are ac-
Information ceptable. Check preferred mailing address.
Personal and Follow the note in parenthesis and insert the appropriate letter. Insert the appropriate letter for
Employment your principal job function with your present employer. Check the highest academic level and
History degree attained. Start with your present position and account for your construction estimating
employment history.
Work Experience Give in sequence and detail for each employer. Date of employment, company, location, and
phone number for the company, name and title of your immediate supervisor, your job title and
job description. Verification MUST be signed by a Chapter Level Representative prior to
submitting to the Society Business Office.
Estimating The estimating experience breakdown is important and must be filled out with care. Indicate,
Experience percentages (%) of time spent on one or more of the construction estimating or related job func-
Breakdown tions.
Estimating Use Page 6 of this form to determine your Primary Discipline number and description. If you
Discipline are a General Construction Estimator, use Discipline 1.4. The CSI Format Summary list is not a
complete listing. Refer to the Master Format contained in the Standard Estimating Practice
Manual for those disciplines not listed. All applicants must have a minimum of five (5) years
construction estimating experience in their primary discipline as of application date.
Mark the appropriate box indicating which DST you wish to obtain certification. If your DST is
not listed a test has not been developed and you will submit Questions and Problems to fulfill
this requirement.
Technical Technical paper topic request must be filled out completely (three topics must be presented).
Paper Topic Be sure to include the requested titles as well as a 25 word synopsis for each. The Certification
Request Board will notify you of your topic assignment. Your technical paper title must begin with,
“How to Estimate the Cost of . . . .”
Affirmation You are required to sign and date the Affirmation, confirming that all information presented is
& factual. This MUST be signed prior to submitting to the Society Business Office.
Verification
Your Chapter Certification Chair or Chapter President or Regional Governor
MUST review and verify the completeness, conformity, and veracity of your appli-
cation. If your application arrives without this verification it will not be accepted and returned
to you.
Certification Fees The Certification Program Fee structure has been broken out into Member and Non-Member
rates for your convenience. Please use the “Calculation of Fees” box to determine the amount to
submit. (Added DST is only for a secondary discipline certification.)
Certification Cycle The Certification Cycle Matrix provides the date requirements/deadlines for your selected
Matrix cycle.
122 2
Certification Application
Please type or print all responses
This application is for certification as a Certified Professional Estimator (CPE)

I plan to enroll in the [Cycle 1] [Cycle 2] cycle of the certification program. (See Matrix pg. 10 of this application)
[circle one]
I prefer to take my workshop [Online] or [At My Chapter] Please check with your Chapter Certification Chair to make sure that
the workshop is offered at your chapter prior to making your selection.
[circle one]
General Information
Indicate the address where you wish to receive correspondence. □ Home □ Work
NAME AND DATE OF BIRTH:
Name (Please print as it will appear on certificate):

Date of Birth:
HOME ADDRESS:
Home Address:
Home Phone: Home E-Mail:
Present Employer & Business Address:
Company Name:
Company Address:
Job Title: Company Phone:
Company Fax: Company Email:
Personal and Employment History (Insert Letter in each Space)
Current Principle Job Function: ____________

A. General & Corporate Management G. Field Job Management
B. Design & Development Engineering H. Purchasing & Procurement
C. Engineering Services I. Estimate Evaluation / Management
D. Cost Evaluation / Budgeting J. Conceptual Estimating
E. Plan Takeoff K. Value Engineering / Management
F. Complete Estimating L. Other __________________________________
Educational Background (Check highest academic level and degree attained)

A. ___ Grade School 1. ___ Diploma
B. ___ High School 2. ___ Associate
C. ___ Junior College 3. ___ Bachelor
D. ___ University 4. ___ Master
E. ___ Trade School 5. ___ Doctorate
F. ___ Extended Studies 6. ___ Certificate
123 3
Work Experience:
List chronologically, most recent first to account for your past estimating experience. Attach additional sheets as
necessary to fulfill experience requirement of the minimum 5 years for the Certification Program.
From: _________________ To:_________________ Title: _______________________________________
Company: _______________________________________________________________________________
Work Mailing Address: ____________________________________________________________________
Phone: ___________________________________________ Fax: __________________________________
Email: _____________________________________ Immediate Supervisor: _________________________
Job Duties: ______________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
From: _________________ To:_________________ Title: _______________________________________

Company: _______________________________________________________________________________
Phone: ___________________________________________ Fax: __________________________________
Job Duties: ______________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
From: _________________ To:_________________ Title: ______________________________________

Company: _______________________________________________________________________________
Phone: ___________________________________________ Fax: __________________________________
Job Duties: ______________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
From: _________________ To:_________________ Title: ______________________________________

Company: _______________________________________________________________________________
Phone: ___________________________________________ Fax: __________________________________
Job Duties: ______________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
TO BE COMPLETED BY YOUR CHAPTER REPRESENTATIVE:

I have verified the above listed employment history and have found the information to be acceptable for the
purposes of certification.
Verified by: _________________________________________________________
Date: _________________________ Name (Print): ___________________________________
124 4
Applicant Name: ___________________________________
Estimating Experience Breakdown

Define the percentage of time spent on one or more of the estimating or related job functions listed below. Provide
information for each employer listed in Work Experience section.
Employer Employer Employer Employer

1 2 3 4
A. Quantity Takeoff
B. Labor Application (man hours)

C. Material Pricing and Extension
D. Unit Application
E. Specifications
F. Conceptual
G. Subcontractor/Vendor Pricing
H. Estimate Review
I. Project Management
J. Other ________________________
______________________________
Totals (should equal 100%)
Estimating Discipline
Construction Estimating Discipline Number(s).
Use CSI Summary found online at http.//www.csinet.org/s_csi/docs/9400/9361.pdf to determine
primary discipline and description. (Page 6 of this form list Master Format Division and Titles).
Primary: Description: Years Experience:

________________ ____________________ ________________
Mark the appropriate box indicating the discipline for which you are seeking certification:
□ 1.4 General Construction □ 31 00 00 Earthwork □ 03 30 00 Concrete
□ 04 20 00 Masonry □ 07 50 00 Roofing □ 09 20 00 Drywall Systems
□ 09 91 00 Painting □ 23 20 00 HVAC/Piping □ 22 00 00 Plumbing
□ 23 30 00 HVAC/Sheet Metal □ 26 00 00 Electrical
□ Submit 100 DST Questions & 2 Problems in Discipline ________________________

125 5
MasterFormat Division Numbers & Titles
126 6
Applicant Name: ___________________________________
Technical Paper Topic Request

Choose topics within your primary discipline only. Your technical paper must have a minimum of 2500 words.
Your Technical Paper title must begin with, “How to Estimate the Cost of . . . . . .”. Please consider your topics
carefully so that you do not choose one that is too broad or too narrow in scope. You MUST provide three (3) top-
ics for consideration.
Paper Title—1st Preference:
25 Word Synopsis:
Paper Title—2nd Preference:
25 Word Synopsis:
Paper Title—3rd Preference:
25 Word Synopsis:
127 7
Affirmation & Verification
I affirm that the statements in this application are true and correct to the best
of my knowledge. I agree to be governed by the rules and regulations of the
Society and all the requirements of the Certification Program.
Signature of Applicant Date:
Please make sure you have all necessary signatures
TO BE COMPLETED BY CHAPTER CERTIFICATION CHAIR, CHAPTER PRESIDENT, OR

REGIONAL GOVERNOR OF ASPE.
VERIFICATION OF APPLICATION:
NOTE: Please make sure that page 4 “Work Experience” is signed by a Chapter Representative.
I hereby verify that I have reviewed this application; that it is complete and fully
conforms to the requirements of the ASPE Certification Program. The informa-
tion herein presented is true to the best of my knowledge.
Signature of Chapter Representative

Date: Print Name:
Chapter Number: Chapter Position:
Contact Phone: Contact Email:
128 8
Applicant Name: ___________________________________
Certification Fees
ASPE Member Candidate Fees
Certification Online Workshop $125.00 Member Candidates must choose
between Online Workshop or
Chapter Level Workshop $75.00  Chapter Level Workshop—see
instructions for more information.
GEK and DST Testing Fees $275.00
Calculation of Fees:
Additional DST - Per Discipline $75.00
Online or Chapter
Workshop $___________
+
Non-Member Candidate Fees DST/GEK Test Fee $___________
+
Certification Online Workshop $125.00 Added DST $ ___________
(only option for non-members)
GEK and DST Testing Fees $525.00 Total Submitted $
Additional DST - Per Discipline $125.00
NOTE:
1. Application Fees—Payable in U. S. Funds. All Fees are Non-Refundable.
2. Applications postmarked after submittal deadlines will not be accepted and will be returned
to the candidate. (refer to the certification cycle matrix on page 10 of this application)
3. Credit Card Transactions cannot be processed without the credit card security code.
4. Please complete all applicable sections and provide appropriate verification so that your ap-
plication can be quickly processed.
Payment Information
□ Check or Money Order Enclosed Amount Enclosed:
□ Visa □ MasterCard □ American Express
Name on Card: Security Code (on back):
Card Number: Expiration Date:
Card Billing Street Address & Zip:
Signature:
The information contained in this message may be privileged and confidential and protected from disclosure. It is intended ex-
clusively for the individual or entity to which it is addressed. This communication may contain information that is proprietary,
privileged or confidential or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please
notify us immediately by replying to the message and deleting it from your computer. American Society of Professional Estima-
tors (ASPE).
129 9
130 10
Approval of Application
To be completed by the National Certification Committee
ELIGIBILITY FOR EXAMINATION BY NATIONAL CERTIFICATION COMMITTEE
1.  Approved  Disapproved
By (print)_____________________________________________________Date________________________
Signature ________________________________________________________________________________
By (print)_____________________________________________________Date________________________
Signature ________________________________________________________________________________
By (print)_____________________________________________________Date________________________
Signature ________________________________________________________________________________
MAJOR CONSENSUS
 Approved  Disapproved
By (print)___________________________________________________ Date________________________
Signature _______________________________________________________________________________
Approved Technical Paper Topic # ___________Title_______________________________________________
This application form is the property of the American Society of Professional

Estimators. Use or reproduction of this form, in whole or in part, without the
express permission of the Board of Trustees of The Society is prohibited.
Copyright 2003
131 11
132
Appendix B
GEK
(General Estimating Knowledge)
Study Guide Order Form
133
134
135
136
Appendix C
Renewal Certification
Application
137
138
ASPE
Certification
Renewal Packet
CESB Accredited Program
139
Please be sure to update your ASPE contact information record of any
changes that would limit our ability to provide you with up-to-date
information.
Below is a summary of information that will need to be provided so that

we can better serve our members.
E-mail Address:
Full Name:
(First MI Last)
Member Number:
Old Address:
H-Home and/or O-Office
New Address:
Old Phone #:
New Phone #:
Contact Preference H—Home O—Office
Comments:
NOTE: Failure to inform ASPE Society Business Office of changes in

your contact information, will not extend due dates and may result in
loss of membership and/or certification status.
140
CONTINUING CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

The construction industry changes continually and the Professional Estimator must be
aware of these changes and be able to evaluate their impact upon his trade.

As the title ʺCertified Professional Estimatorʺ (CPE) comes into increased use, the architect/
owner is becoming increasingly aware of the importance of the CPE designation. We, as a
Society, must show the industry and the public that the construction estimator is a highly
trained professional who is responsible for the very survival of the company for which he
works, the method by which the Society has chosen to do this is the Certification program.

This program alone, however, is not enough. As ʺCPEʺ is a meaningful professional title,
we must be able to show other industry professionals that the CPE is an educated and moti‐
vated person who maintains his level of knowledge through continued education and inter‐
action with other people in the industry. The method by which the Society has chosen to do
this is the Certification Renewal Program.

The Certification Renewal Program also encourages our members to remain active in the
Society and the construction industry. ASPEʹs strength comes from its active members. To
have a stronger voice in the future of the construction industry, we must have a large, ac‐
tive membership. Encouraging our members to become CPEs and having a program,
which rewards them for participating in the Society’s activities, can help achieve these
goals.

Eligibility

The member must have been previously certified and have maintained his/her membership
in the Society with all dues and fees paid for the three years prior to submitting his/her
Certification Renewal Application. Non‐members must also participate in this program as
it pertains to accruing points for continuing education and other professional activities.

Implementation

Each current participating CPE must apply for their certification renewal every three years.
Any CPE subject to this program will have three years, from the first August 1
after issuance of their Certificate, to accumulate the 30 points required for renewing certifi‐
cation.

POINTS MUST BE EARNED FROM AT LEAST THREE (3) OF THE SCHEDULED LEVELS.
Continued…...
141

The applicant is responsible for accumulating all documentation for the point total and
transmitting it to the Society Business Office. Accumulate verifications annually to avoid
problems resulting from changing administrations. It is the responsibility of the CPE to ob‐
tain a guarantee of delivery. It is recommended that the documentation be sent with a re‐
turn receipt requested to the Society Business Office or use a delivery service that provides
a tracking system.

Requirements for Renewing Certification may be modified from time to time. These modi‐
fications may include additional categories and requirements. The Continuing Certification
applicant, however, will be granted points based upon the point schedule in effect at the
beginning of the applicantʹs Continuing Certification term.
CERTIFICATION RENEWAL PROCEDURES

Your first cycle and first year (Year 1) in the Certification Program begins August 1 follow‐
ing notification of obtaining your CPE status. Your certificate states that your CPE status
will terminate July 31 of Year 4. The accumulation of points begins August 1 of Year 1 and
ends three years later on July 31 of Year 3. This period runs concurrently with the ASPE
fiscal year for record keeping purposes.

The Business Office will notify you before July 31 of Year 3 that your Certification will ex‐
pire on July 31 of Year 4. The Certification Renewal application and the processing fee shall
be submitted to the Society Business Office by November 1 of Year 4.

The Continuing Certification Applicant is solely responsible for obtaining all signatures and
documentation supporting the application. Your Certification Renewal application should
first be submitted to your Chapter Certification Chair for review. Then the completed ap‐
plication must be submitted to the Society Business Office (SBO) along with the appropriate
fee. The SBO will verify the application is complete and send it to your regional representa‐
tive on the National Certification Committee for review. You will be notified by February 1
of Year 4 of any deficiencies or itsʹ acceptance. You will have until July 1 of Year 4 to correct
any deficiencies. A new certificate will be issued prior to the expiration date and will cover
the next three years. (July 31 of Year 7)

The second cycle would actually begin with the accumulation of points in Year 4. The accu‐
mulation of points begins August 1 of year 4 and ends three years later on July 31 of Year 6.

All terms and conditions of Renewing Certification, as listed above, will apply to each suc‐
cessive three‐year cycle.
142
American Society of
Professional Estimators
This form is the property of The American Society of Professional Estimators.

Use or reproduction of this form in whole or part without the express permission of
The Board of Trustees of the Society is prohibited.
MEMBER
CERTIFICATION RENEWAL APPLICATION
CONFIDENTIAL
Name ______________________________ Chapter No. ____________________
Date Received _______________________ Certificate No. __________________
Payment Received ____________________ Renewal Date __________________
Member Status ______________________
REMIT TO: ASPE—Certification

2525 Perimeter Place Drive, Suite 103
Nashville, TN 37214
Phone: 615-316-9200
Fax: 615-316-9800
143
Certification Renewal Application Instructions
READ instructions carefully before completing this application.

If additional space is required, type your information on a blank white sheet of paper and attach
it to the back of your application. Note the attachments at the section header—label additional
information accordingly.

Attach ALL back‐up pertaining to your point claims and obtain all signatures.

COVER PAGE: Leave bottom section blank for use by the Society Business Office.

SECTIONS 1‐3: Fill in appropriate information. Abbreviations for street, avenue,
boulevard, and states are acceptable. Check preferred mailing address.

SECTION 4: If you are a General Construction Estimator, use discipline 1.4. Refer to
the Master Format contained in the Standard Estimating Practice Manual
for the correct discipline. Fill in your Certificate number, original date
of issue, and expiration date.

SECTION 5: Fill in payment information. Enclose appropriate Certification Renewal Fee.
If paying by credit card, the three digit code on the back of the card is required.

SECTION 6: Complete the Certification Renewal Point Schedule (sections A—I). Be sure
to attach the appropriate signatures and back up justifying your points.

You application will not be considered if required signatures are not
obtained prior to submitting to the Society Business Office. Your
application will be returned.

A. A total of 30 points must be earned from at least three (3) of the
nine (9) levels.

B. Please note verification requirements for each category.

C. Each level will have a subtotal. Total all level subtotals
levels A—I on last page of application.

SECTION 7: Attestment shall be signed and dated by the applicant. Forward all
information to the Society Business Office with the appropriate back‐up
and renewal fee.

SECTION 8: Reserve for comments by the Certification Committee.

144

CERTIFICATION RENEWAL PROCEDURE

1. Certification Renewal Applicants must complete the application in strict
compliance with the instructions and forward to the Society Business Office
prior to the expiration date of their Certificate. (Reference your notification of
expiration letter for due date)

3. The Society Business Office records and verifies the following:
a. Date received
b. Payment received
c. Certification Number
d. Renewal Date
e. Membership Status
f. Conformance with Instructions
g. Completeness of Documentation List and Attachments

If you are missing required signatures or backup—the Society Business
Office will return the application for corrections.

4. The Society Business Office forwards the completed application to Regional
Certification Committee Member for review.

5. Your National Certification Committee Member reviews application and re‐
turns it to the Society Business Office with recommendation for action. Ap‐
plication is kept on file at SBO.

6. The Society Business Office issues new Certificate.
145
Certification Renewal Program Tips
Submitted by Larry L. Cockrum, FCPE 7/08
Every three (3) years CPEs must submit confirmation that they continue to be active and grow in their profession. This is a con-
dition of applying for the original CPE status.
You would do well to start a file immediately for qualifying activities and keep it current as the three year cycle continues rather
than trying to reconstruct your contributions at the end of the cycle. Be sure to review the Point Schedule and look for key ac-
tivities in each category that will be applicable to your ability to participate.
The “Certification Program Guide” document published by the Certification Committee explains in detail the timing of the
submittal process. (See section entitled Certification Renewal Procedures)
Documentation of ten points for activities each year will be required. There are nine categories for point accumulation. You
must have points in at least three of the categories.
Following are hints and tips for several Categories:
National Level
Attending Convention and taking part in seminars and workshops is a big plus with an added bonus if you are your Chapter’s
delegate. (keep in mind that the ten points per year cannot come from only one Level)
Write a paper on a topic that excites you. Submit to the SBO, they are always looking for new, original material.
Proctoring a GEK or DST Exam or conducting a Workshop is something that you can do in your home town for your Chapter’s
CPE candidates.
Society Committee & Tech Board Level

Item C, Tech Paper Review usually takes place at Convention but sometimes the papers are sent to individuals for review.
Whether at Convention or at home, when you complete the review make a copy of each Evaluation/Grading sheet as documen-
tation of the activity.
Regional Level
Check with your Governor to make sure you are aware of any regional meeting scheduled for your region. Check the Critical
Calendar on the ASPE website for a regional meeting somewhere closer to your home. i.e.: For someone in Little Rock or
Memphis (SE Region) it might be more convenient to go to a Central Region meeting in St. Louis or a Southwest Region meet-
ing in Dallas than your own regional meeting in Florida. Also, Regional meetings are shorter and less expensive than the An-
nual Convention.
Chapter Level
Be active in your local chapter. Being a committee member is pretty easy duty, attending meetings regularly helps you and re-
inforces the chapter’s strength.
Industry Level
If you work with another industry organization (NAWIC, CSI, AIA) in some manner, i.e. present a program for the organization
or cooperate in some joint activity, this may be claimed.
Keep in mind that you might accumulate twenty eight points in one Level such as Convention Registrant, Voting Delegate,
Seminar and Workshop Attendee or as an active Chapter member and officer - then you only need one point in two other Lev-
els. That’s OK!
For Members-at-large (MAL) point accumulation can be a little more challenging than for someone with a local chapter. MALs
should look toward:
1. Volunteer as a Tech Board Committee member. Governors make these appointments so you can call your
Governor and express your interest.
2. Talk to your Governor about assisting him/her. All Governors need unpaid assistants to help with their duties.
3. Contact other industry associations with a local chapter and participate in one or more of their activities.
146
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF PROFESSIONAL ESTIMATORS
Certification Renewal Application – Member
CHAPTER NUMBER: _____________ CHAPTER CERTIFICATION CHAIR:_________________________________________
1. NAME AND DATE OF BIRTH

___________________________________________________________________________________________
Last Name First Name Middle Initial Date of Birth
Preferred Mailing Address HOME  BUSINESS

2. HOME ADDRESS
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Number and Street
___________________________________________________________________________________________
City State Country Zip Code
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
E-Mail Address Area Code and Telephone Number
3. BUSINESS ADDRESS
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Company Name
___________________________________________________________________________________________
Number and Street
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
E-Mail Address Area Code and Telephone Number
4. CERTIFICATION NUMBER AND DATE OF ISSUE
_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Certification Number Original Date of Issue CSI Discipline Cert. Expiration
5. APPLICATION FEE
Continuing Certification Fee - $75.00 Payable in U.S. Funds (Non-refundable)
Amount Enclosed $___________  Business Check  Personal Check  Money Order
Credit Card Payment Check one:  Visa  MasterCard  AMEX
Card No.__________________________________________ Exp. Date ___________ CV2 #____________________

(Last 3 digit code on back of card)
Name Printed On Card ________________________________ Signature________________________________
Billing Street Address: _______________________________________________ Billing Zip Code:________________
If paying with credit card—the three digit code on back of card is required in order to process.
The information contained in this message may be privileged and confidential and protected from disclosure. It is intended exclusively for
the individual or entity to which it is addressed. This communication may contain information that is proprietary, privileged or confidential
or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by replying to
the message and deleting it from your computer. American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE).
147
6. RENEWING CERTIFICATION POINT SCHEDULE ( A - I)
Schedule A—National Level for ASPE

DESCRIPTION POSSIBLE YEAR 1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3 TOTAL
POINTS POINTS
1. Trustees 5/YR
2. Committee/Technical Committee Chair 5/YR
A. Subcommittee Chairman 5/YR
B. Committee Member 3/YR
3. Convention Registrant 5/YR
A. Voting Delegate 2/YR
4. Convention Activities
A. Attend All Committee Workshops 1/YR
B. Attend All Educational Seminars 1/YR
C. Present Seminar 2/YR
D. Present Committee Workshop 1/YR
5. General Activities
A. Contribute Time and Effort for 3/YR

National Interest MAX
B. Article for “Estimating Today” 5/YR
Attach Date References. MAX
C. Proctor for EP2 Exam 3/YR
MAX
D. Proctor for GEK Exam 3/YR
MAX
E. Proctor for DST Exam 3/YR
MAX
F. Conduct Certification Workshop 1/YR
MAX
TOTAL POINTS CLAIMED
Verified by Society Business Office

Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: _________________________
Points Approved by National Certification Committee Member
Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: _________________________
148
Schedule B—ASPE Committee and Technical Committee Level
POINTS POINTS
1. Committee Support Activities
A. Contribute to SEP Manual 10/YR

MAX
B. Edit portions of SEP Manual 5 per edit
C. Technical Paper Content Review 2 per paper
D. DST Questions & Problems Review 10/ Set

(10 points per set of Q&P)
E. Write DST Questions and Problems 15 /DST

(100 questions & 2 problems)
Points to be claimed after approval
of submittal by the National Cert.
Board. (15 Points for each DST)
Reviewed and Approved by the National Standards Committee Chair (1a & 1b above)
Signature: _______________________________________________________ Date: ____________________
Reviewed and Approved by the National Certification Committee Member (1c, d, & e above)
Signature: _______________________________________________________ Date: ____________________
Schedule C—ASPE Regional Activity Level

1. Regional Activities
A. Attend Regional Meeting 3/Meeting
B. Organize Regional Meeting 5/Meeting
C. Attend All Activities 1/ Meeting
D. Present Seminar 2/YR

MAX
E. Present Committee Workshop 2/YR
MAX
Reviewed and Approved by Regional Governor

Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: _________________________

Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: _________________________
149
Schedule D—ASPE CHAPTER LEVEL
POINTS POINTS
1. Chapter Office or Director 5/YR
2. Chapter Committee Chairman 4/YR
3. Chapter Committee Member 2/YR
4. Monthly Meeting Attendance 3/YR

( 75% of meeting per year)
5. Article for Chapter Newsletter 3/YR
MAX
6. Contribute Time and Effort to Chapter 2/YR
Activities MAX
7. Pro-tem President 2/YR
8. Charter Member (one time claim) 10
Reviewed and Approved by Chapter Officer

Signature: _______________________________________________________ Date: ____________________

Signature: _______________________________________________________ Date: ____________________
Schedule E—EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

1. Teach Estimating Class 2/Cl Hr
(must be verified by Dean or Dept. Head)
Reviewed and Verified by Department Head or Dean

Signature: ________________________________________________ Date: __________________
Signature: _______________________________________________________ Date: ____________________
2. Guest Lecturer Estimating Class 2/Cl Hr

(must be verified by Instructor)
Reviewed and Verified by Lecturer or Instructor
Signature: ________________________________________________ Date: __________________
Signature: _______________________________________________________ Date: ____________________
3. Speaker Construction Seminar 2/Cl Hr

(attach appropriate documentation)
4. Attend Estimating Courses 2/Cl Hr
5. Attend Construction Seminar 2/Cl Hr
Points Reviewed and Approved by National Certification Committee Member

Signature: _____________________________________________ Date: _________________________
150
Schedule F—PROFESSIONAL LEVEL
(Only one category per year can be POINTS POINTS
claimed)
1. Manager of Estimating 4/YR
2. Chief Estimator 3/YR
3. Estimator 2/YR
4. Self-Employed Estimator 5/YR
No verification is required for these points since you attest to the points claimed at the end of this application.
Reviewed and Approved by the Chapter Certification Chair or Chapter Officer (1c, d, & e above)
Signature: _______________________________________________________ Date: ____________________
Schedule G—PUBLICATIONS LEVEL

1. Published an Estimating Book 25/ Book
2. Published a Technical Paper in 5/Paper

“Estimating Today”
NOTE: In order to claim the points
Listed above, enclose the appropriate
back-up documentation.
Points Reviewed and Approved by National Certification Committee Member
Signature: _____________________________________________ Date: _________________________
Schedule H—INDUSTRY LEVEL

POINTS POINTS
1. Contribute Time and Effort to other 2/YR
Construction Associations MAX
(Provide documentation from other
association.)
Reviewed and Approved by the Chapter Certification Chair or Chapter Officer
Signature: _______________________________________________________ Date: ____________________
151
Schedule I—PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATION
POINTS POINTS
1. Professional License or Registration 4/YR
(Your CPE Certification is not eligible
for point accumulation in this schedule)
SUBMIT A COPY OF YOUR PROFES-
SIONAL LICENSE OR REGISTRATION
Verified by Society Business Office Copy Attached: □ YES □ NO
Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: _________________________

Signature: _____________________________________________ Date: _________________________
SUMMARY OF POINTS CLAIMED National Certification Committee Comments

SCHEDULE LEVEL POINTS
Level A
Level B
Level C
Level D
Level E
Level F
Level G
Level H
Level I
TOTAL POINTS
7. ATTESTMENT
I certify that the statements in this application are correct and I agree to be governed by the rules and
regulations of the Certification Program and the Society.
Applicants Signature: ________________________________________ Date: _____________________
8. APPROVAL BY NATIONAL CERTIFICATION COMMITTEE
It is the recommendation of the National Certification Committee that this application:

□ Be Granted Renewal □ Be Denied Renewal
Signature: _____________________________________ Date: ___________________
Region: _______________________
152
Appendix D
Lifetime CPE
Application
153
154
LIFETIME CPE APPLICATION FORM
1. NAME
____________________________________________________________________________________________
Last Name First Name Middle Initial
Preferred Mailing Address: HOME BUSINESS
2. HOME ADDRESS
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Number and Street Area Code and Phone Number
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
3. BUSINESS ADDRESS
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Company Name
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Number and Street Area Code and Phone Number
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
4. CERTIFICATION NUMBER AND DATE OF ISSUE:
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Certification Number Date of Issue CSI Discipline Cert. Expiration
5. SBO VERIFICATION: YES NO
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
APPROVED BY: NATIONAL CERTIFICATION COMMITTEE
6. APPLICATION FEE: One-Time CPE Lifetime Application Fee - $400.00 (Non-refundable)

Make Checks Payable to: American Society of Professional Estimators, 2525 Perimeter Place Drive, Suite 103 – Nashville, TN 37214
Amount Enclosed $___________ Business Check Personal Check Money Order

Credit Card Payment Check one: Visa MasterCard AMEX
Card No.______________________________________ Exp. Date ___________________ CV2#__________________________

(Last 3 digits of code on back of card)
Name Printed On Card ________________________________ Signature______________________________________________
Billing Street Address: ________________________________________ Billing Zip Code: _________________________________
Use or reproduction of this form in whole or part without the express written permission of the Board of Trustees of the Society is prohibited.
No part of information submitted above is used for any purpose other than to verify qualifications of candidate.
The information contained in this message/form may be privileged and confidential and protected from disclosure. It is intended exclusively for the
individual or entity to which it is addressed. This communication may contain information that is proprietary, privileged or confidential or otherwise legally
exempt from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by replying to the message and deleting it from
your computer. American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE).
155
156
Appendix E
Stamp and Seal
Application
157
158
Certification
Stamp and Seal
Application &
User Agreement
Remit to: American Society of Professional Estimators

Attn: Certification Coordinator
Nashville, TN 37214
08/05/09
159
ASPE CERTIFIED STAMP & SEAL PROGRAM

Certification Committee
2525 Perimeter Place Drive, Suite 103 • Nashville, TN 37214 • (615) 316-9200 • FAX (615) 316-9800
Dear Stamp and/or Seal Candidate:
Thank you for requesting a copy of the American Society of Professional Estimator’s Stamp and Seal
Program Packet. Your active involvement in this program will benefit many sectors of ASPE. Only
Certified Society Members may apply for the Stamp and/or Seal.
One of the requirements of obtaining the Stamp/Seal is participating in a self-administered workshop

on the proper uses and restrictions of the stamp/seal in our industry and the responsibilities of the CPE
requesting the stamp/seal. Please note the acknowledgement section on the application. You must
sign this portion of the application indicating that you have read the enclosed material. No stamp/seal
will be issued without your completed application and user’s agreement.
Please do not hesitate to contact the Society Business Office with any questions you may have.
Regards
The National Certification Committee
Chairman — Walt Lemon, III, CPE - Northwest Region

Cell: 503-880-1926
Portland, OR 97217
Email: Walt@europa.com
Dan Ergle, CPE - Southeast Region Jerry L. Hackleman, CPE - Central Plains Region
ADE Construction Consultants, Inc. Dewitt & Associates, Inc.
1298 Rockbridge Road, Ste. A 933 E. Canterbury Street
Stone Mountain, GA 30087 Springfield, MO 65810
Office: 770-921-2701 Phone: 417-881-4820
Email: danergle@bellsouth.net Email: jhackleman@dewitt-associates.com
Peter Saxon, III, CPE - Northeast Region Ron Svarc, CPE - Southwest Region
Shepard Steel Company, Inc. HMC
55 Shepard Drive 2601 Main Street, Ste. 100
Newington, CT 06111 Irvine, CA 92614
Office: 860-525-4446 x 7069 Office: 949-567-1833 x 130
Email: psaxon@shepardsteel.com Email: kickerron@cox.net
ASPE Certified Stamp & Seal Program
Code of Professional Practice
1. GOVERNS CPES AND THEIR SUBORDINATES
This Code sets forth certain standards for the intended purpose of governing the professional practice of all indi-
viduals who have accepted the credentials of a Certified Professional Estimator (CPE), are ASPE members in
good standing, and intend to utilize the Stamp and/or Seal as issued by ASPE. ASPE knows of no reason why
it should not be entitled to claim exclusive authority to bestow the CPE credentials upon qualified individuals,
and ASPE shall vigorously pursue all reasonable means to preserve its right to establish and publish this and
related standards both now and in the future. Therefore, all who represent themselves as a CPE to their clients
or employers by using the Stamp and/or Seal shall adhere to this Code. Those who do not wish to give their
consent nor be so governed shall not be granted the use of the Stamp and/or Seal issued by the Society until
such time as they are willing to comply. In addition, it shall be the responsibility of a CPE to insure that the acts
of employees or staff under their responsible supervision conform to the professional standards contained
herein, or such acts may subject the supervising CPE to a professional review and possible loss of credentials.
[Use of the words "he, him, his, etc." in this Code, shall be interpreted as signifying both genders. The terms
"client" and "employer" shall be considered interchangeable for the purpose of interpreting this Code.]
2. STANDARD ESTIMATING PRACTICE (SEP)
All CPEs requesting the Stamp and/or Seal should be familiar with ASPE's publication, Standard Estimating
Practice (SEP). SEP should be a part of your reference library. It clearly defines the Society's vision of proper
estimating techniques, formats, etc. Part One, Section One, Basic Standards, Part One, Section Two, Levels of
the Estimate, and Part One, Section Three, Scope of the Estimate, are included with this workshop. Please
review carefully.
3. CODE OF ETHICS
All members of ASPE are bound to abide by the Society's Code of Ethics, which serves as a general reference
for an estimator's professional conduct. A complete copy can be located in Part Four of Standard Estimating
Practice. This Code of Professional Practice reinforces the Code of Ethics, and the principle that professional
skills alone are not sufficient to demonstrate professionalism. Consequently, violations of the standards of pro-
fessional conduct as presented in the Code of Ethics and this Code of Professional Practice could subject a
CPE to disciplinary action and possible loss of the right to continued use of the professional credentials granted
by the Society.
4. ETHICAL CONDUCT
A CPE shall treat all fellow CPEs, and all members of allied professions, with fairness and respect and shall not
commit any malicious act, or make any false or unjust accusation, which shall directly or indirectly injure an-
other's personal or professional reputation. This does not relieve a CPE of the moral obligation to expose illegal
or unethical conduct in a manner appropriate for the offense.
5. REVIEW OF ANOTHER'S WORK
Whenever a client or an employer asks a CPE to review or comment on the work performed by another, ex-
treme care shall be taken in order to render a proper opinion. Casual and improperly researched conclusions
are not within the realm of professional conduct to be expected of a CPE. If appropriate, the reviewing CPE
shall discuss the issues of import with the other person whose work is being reviewed prior to releasing a writ-
ten report or expressing an oral opinion. This paragraph places no restriction on the preparation of a com-
pletely independent estimate or work product which a client or employer may choose to use as the basis for
their own comparison.
161
Page 2 Code of Professional Practice
6. PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
No CPE shall misrepresent their professional qualifications or attempt to practice beyond the limits of their field
of expertise. If called upon to do so, a CPE shall identify the Construction Estimating Discipline(s) (CEDs) in
which they can demonstrate that they have acquired sufficient experience to be qualified to practice. Those
CPEs that have expertise in several fields other than the ones in which they were initially certified, shall be per-
mitted to enlarge their practice to include the additional disciplines, provided they have conducted sufficient re-
search and study of the unique aspects of the new field to enable them to render sound judgment in their prac-
tice.
7. DEFINING THE SCOPE OF SERVICES
It shall be the responsibility of a CPE to maintain effective communication with each client or employer, with
regard to the scope of services to be rendered, including the level of detail required, the form of the work prod-
uct, and the date, or approximate date, by which the defined services will be completed. A sample contract for
professional estimating services between estimator and client is enclosed with this workshop. It is from the
Standard Estimating Practice Manual, Part One. During the course of a time and expenses engagement, at the
earliest moment that a CPE has reason to believe that the scope of services originally agreed upon will be in-
sufficient to produce the desired results in a professional manner, or that any estimate of hours involved in per-
forming an assignment will be inadequate, the client or employer should be advised. A CPE shall pursue all
reasonable means to mitigate expenses by periodically seeking clarification of the client's or employer's expec-
tations regarding the continuation of the work and by advising the client or employer of the remaining level of
effort necessary to complete a given assignment in a professional manner.
8. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
No CPE shall:
A. Accept an engagement or assignment that may result in the compromising of professional
ethics, or the minimum standards of excellence recommended by the Society.
B. Accept an engagement or assignment to perform work for more than one client on any
particular project without the consent of all parties concerned.
C. Accept an engagement or assignment to perform professional services or render a profes-
sional opinion on a project or issue in dispute, if the CPE has had access to in formation
which may prejudice the work or opinion, or constitute a conflict of interest detrimental to the
client, unless such circumstances and relevant facts have been properly disclosed in writing
and accepted by the client.
D. Incorporate the work of another CPE, contractor, or client, into a professional work product
without proper reference, or the express permission of the party or parties that performed the
original work.
9. FINANCIAL INTERESTS
A CPE shall not accept an engagement or assignment for a client if there is a possibility the professional ser-
vices to be performed may involve dealings with an organization in which the CPE, another client, or the CPE's
employer has a significant financial interest, without having disclosed such interest to the client prior to perform-
ing any services.
10. REMUNERATION FOR PROFESSIONAL WORK
A CPE may be remunerated for his professional work by means of hourly professional fees, by payment of a
lump sum fee for a specific scope of service, by payment of a bonus or other compensation on the basis of per-
formance or valuable contribution to the successful completion of a construction project, or by compensation
paid by his employer. No CPE shall testify as an expert witness in a case where compensation for professional
services is based on a percentage of the judgment or settlement amount. A CPE shall be permitted to render
professional services in exchange for an ownership interest in a project provided no other conflicts of interest
exist.
162
Code of Professional Practice Page 3
11. INFLUENCE OF OTHERS
No CPE shall seek or accept any commission or other valuable consideration for the purpose of improperly influ-
encing the decision of others.
12. SOLICITATION OF WORK
No CPE shall obtain or attempt to obtain professional work by offering or paying monetary or other valuable consid-
eration to any person or persons involved in the process of selecting a CPE for an assignment, or by any other im-
proper means. Referral service commissions are permissible provided they do not violate any laws governing such
transactions.
13. COMPARISONS
No CPE shall obtain or attempt to obtain professional work by making an unfounded comparison with another with
regard to the speed, efficiency, or competency of the other person to perform the work. A CPE may provide verbal
or written details of the services believed to be required in the performance of an engagement and may make com-
parisons with the approaches to the accomplishment of the work proposed by another, provided such comparisons
are not slanderous nor detrimental to the public reputation of the other person's professional practice.
14. ACCURACY OF QUANTITIES AND PRICES
Guarantees of the accuracy of the quantities, or prices used in the preparation of a professional estimate shall be
given at the discretion of the responsible CPE. A CPE may choose to limit the representation of the accuracy of
the services performed by indicating that they have been or will be performed in accordance with "generally ac-
cepted professional estimating practices." Such representation shall not be interpreted as a guarantee of accu-
racy, but rather as an assurance that a reasonable amount of care has been, or will be exercised in the preparation
of the estimate work product. This is because many factors can be involved in the professional interpretation of the
scope of the construction work being quantified or priced, and because various methods and techniques for sur-
veying or deriving estimate quantities have varying degrees of accuracy associated with them. Therefore, a CPE's
obligations under this Code relative to the adequacy or accuracy of a professional estimate shall be based on a
determination of what is reasonable under the circumstances of the engagement. Essentially, a CPE shall make
every reasonable effort to include all items shown in the related project documents, and shall price all items utilizing
appropriate quotations and published or authorized proprietary reference sources as tempered by experience and
professional judgment.
15. PROFESSIONAL ESTIMATING PRACTICES
Whenever a CPE utilizes the phrase "prepared in accordance with generally accepted professional estimating
practices," this shall be interpreted to mean that the CPE has utilized a systematic method of surveying the quanti-
ties, has applied prices to each estimate line item, and has summarized the major divisions of work in a format suit-
able for the level of detail agreed upon by the client and CPE. As the volume of technical material, either published
or recognized by the Society increases, specific elements of the estimating process will become more standardized
and commonly understood. Presently, there are a number of books and estimating standards, which set forth vari-
ous estimating systems and methods. A CPE who employs one or more of these published systems may utilize
the phrase "prepared in accordance with generally accepted professional estimating practices" in the manner, de-
scribed in paragraph 18, below.
16. CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
No CPE shall divulge without authority, or use improperly, any information received in the course of any assign-
ment or engagement.
17. ADVERTISEMENTS AND PROMOTION
A CPE in professional practice may advertise and promote his professional services provided such marketing ef-
forts do not detract from the dignity of the profession, and that they do not violate any other provision of this Code.
163
Page 4 Code of Professional Practice
18. PROFESSIONAL WORK PRODUCTS IDENTIFIED
Reports, estimates, and other documents emanating from a CPE's professional practice, should be identified as
the work of that practice. A cover letter or a narrative on the estimate scope, bound within a report is one of the
optional methods of advising the reader of the type of report or estimate, which has been prepared. It also pro-
vides the opportunity to state that the estimate has been "prepared in accordance with generally accepted profes-
sional estimating practices." This type of letter or narrative may also be used to advise the reader of any profes-
sional reservations or limitations on the scope or completeness of the work product. Documents prepared for or in
association with other consultants should show the names of both or all CPEs, individuals, and firms as appropri-
ate.
19. USE OF THE STAMP AND/OR SEAL
RECOMMENDED USES:
1. The Certified Professional Estimator shall use the personalized Stamp and/or Seal to mark
completed estimates that they have fully prepared within their task or discipline.
2. The Certified Professional Estimator shall clearly identify the level of the estimate he is preparing
prior to placing his stamp or seal on the finished product.
3. The Stamp and/or Seal shall be used only on items referring to estimating. They shall not be used
on a report that does not reflect or affect an estimate.
4. The use of the Stamp and/or Seal on an estimate prepared by others indicates the CPE using the
stamp or seal has fully reviewed the estimate and concurs with the contents therein.
20. PROFESSIONAL REVIEW
Cases involving charges of unprofessional conduct against a CPE, whether specially defined by this Code or not,
shall be dealt with as the circumstances dictate by an impartial panel of no fewer than three (3) Certified Members,
one to be appointed by the CPE under review, one to be appointed by the President of the Society, and the third to
be selected by the other two. The CPE under review shall be entitled to the rights of "due process" including, but
not limited to, the rights to hear all the evidence, cross-examination, et cetera. The decision of the panel shall be
written, and shall state the basis for action. The decision may be appealed to the National Board of Trustees,
which shall not review any new evidence in the matter, but shall determine whether appropriate procedures were
followed and whether the matter warrants another hearing by the same or a new panel of Certified Members.
Should the CPE under review disagree with the final decision, the matter shall be submitted to binding arbitration in
accordance with the rules of the American Arbitration Association.
The American Society of Professional Estimators’

Code of Ethics is available at
164
Application for CPE Stamp and/or Seal
Description Qty. Price Subtotal
Order total:
Name:
Address:
City: State/Prov:
Zip/Post. code: Phone:

E-mail:
Acknowledgement: I ________________________________________have read the

enclosed material and do agree to abide by the information provided herein as relating
to the use of the CPE Stamp and/or Seal.
Signature: ________________________________________________
The information contained in this message may be privileged and confidential and protected from
disclosure. It is intended exclusively for the individual or entity to which it is addressed. This com-
Method of Payment munication may contain information that is proprietary, privileged or confidential or otherwise legally
exempt from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immedi-
ately by replying to the message and deleting it from your computer. American Society of Profes-
Check #________________
sional Estimators (ASPE).
Visa MasterCard American Express

Credit Card #:
Exp. date: Security Code (on back of card)
The following User’s Agreement will be kept on file at the Society Business Office. Please sign where indicated
and return one (1) copy with this completed application and funds. Retain a copy of the User’s Agreement for
your files. Please allow 4 to 6 weeks for delivery.
The stamp and/or seal will be issued with an expiration date of three years, corresponding to the qualified appli-
cant’s certification expiration dates. The Stamp and Seal will not be offered to certified non-members of ASPE.
Please submit completed application and user’s agreement to : A S P E

Attn: Certification
FAX: 615-316-9800 PHONE: 615-316-9200 2525 Perimeter Place Drive, Ste. 103
Nashville, TN 37214
165
American Society of
Professional Estimators
User’s Agreement
ASPE Certified Stamp & Seal Program
In consideration of being issued the official Certified Professional Estimator Stamp and/or Seal by the
American Society of Professional Estimators, the undersigned hereby agrees as follows:
(1) The Stamp/Seal will be used solely by the undersigned to reflect his or her personal
certification that the estimate to which the stamp/seal is affixed has been prepared or
thoroughly reviewed by the undersigned.
(2) Use of the Stamp/Seal by anyone other than the undersigned, duplication of the stamp by
the undersigned or any other use of the Stamp/Seal inconsistent with the terms of this
agreement will be cause for immediate recall of the Stamp/Seal by the Society, the forfeiture
of any further use thereof by the undersigned.
(3) The Stamp/Seal is issued for a term of three (3) years, corresponding to the undersigned’s
certification expiration date. If the undersigned fails to obtain or meet the requirements of
the certification renewal program, the stamp will not be re-issued.
(4) In the event the undersigned commits any violation in the use of the stamp/seal as
described above will also be cause for termination of his or her membership from the
Society.
(5) All renewals will be subject to the rules in place at the time of re-application.
(6) It is the responsibility of the undersigned to be aware of any legal or employer limitations
or requirements on the use of the seal
The Society give no assurances and makes no representation as to the quality of any estimate to which
The Stamp/Seal may be affixed.
Applicant’s Signature ___________________________________________________________
Date: _______________________________
Subscribed and Sworn before me this ____________day of _________________, 20____.
Notary Signature: _______________________________________________________________
My Commission Expires: _________________________________________________________
Send one (1) copy to Society Business Office

Keep one (1) copy for your files.
166
Appendix F
SEP
(Standard Estimating Practice Manual)
Order Form
167
168
SEP is good for your Business
ASPE’s Standard Estimating Practice Manual 7th Edition
Recommended for the Library of Certified Professional Estimators and Certification Candidates.
$79 ASPE Members $89 Non-members

(Plus Shipping)
The American Society of Professional Estimators’ new Seventh Edition of Standard Estimating Practice is available to
individuals or groups who have an interest in a “how-to” reference manual on the practice of estimating construction projects.
This reference volume includes basic information applicable to all aspects of the practice of estimating and also includes
specific information on a wide variety of specialty estimates arranged in a Master format. The 7th Edition of ASPE’s Standard
Estimating Practice manual will make a great addition to your estimating library as a ready reference or teaching aid.
*Orders may be placed online by visiting our ASPE Bookstore at

Name_________________________________________________________________________
Company_______________________________________ Telephone #___________________
Preferred Address_______________________________________________________________
City_______________________________ State________ Zip Code_____________________

**** Street Address is Required for Shipping**** (NO P.O. Boxes)
Quantity________________
Type of Payment: Circle One Check Credit Card Money Order
Credit Card Number______________________________ Expiration Date________________
CV2 Code: _________( Last 3 digits of code on back of card)
Name on Card____________________________ Signature_____________________________
Billing Street Address:______________________________________ Billing Zip code:__________
Manuals will not be processed without payment and completed order form. No invoices will be sent. Add $ 7.00 shipping, per
manual. Make checks payable to: American Society of Professional Estimators. ASPE reserves the right to change future
publication prices without notice. Please allow 4 to 6 weeks for delivery.

2525 Perimeter Place Drive, Suite 103 ● Nashville, TN 37214
Phone: (615) 316-9200 ● Fax: (615) 316-9800 ● 888-378-6283
Email: Tina@aspenational.org
The information contained in this message may be privileged and confidential and protected from disclosure. It is intended exclusively for the individual or entity to which it is addressed. This
communication may contain information that is proprietary, privileged or confidential or otherwise legally exempt from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us
immediately by replying to the message and deleting it from your computer. American Society of Professional Estimators (ASPE).
169
7th Standard Estimating Practice
PART ONE -
Division 7
PRACTICES COMMON TO ALL DISCIPLINES
07 01 50 – Maintenance of Membrane Roofing
Basic Standards
07 10 00 – Dampproofing and Waterproofing
Levels of the Estimate
07 19 00 – Water Repellents
Scope of Estimate
07 24 00 – Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems
Estimating Process
07 50 00 – Membrane Roofing
Project Evaluation - Constructors
07 92 00 – Joint Sealants
Project Evaluation - Value Engineering (VE)
Bid Documents/Procurement
Division 8
Checklists/Special Forms
08 11 00 – Metal Doors and Frames
Specification Review
08 71 00 – Door Hardware
Plan Review
Quantity Survey
Division 9
Pricing/Summaries
09 29 00 – Gypsum Board
Contingency
09 51 00 – Acoustical Ceilings
Bid Day Procedures
09 72 00 – Wall Covering
Presentation
09 90 00 – Paints and Coating
Post-Bid Procedures
09 97 13 – Steel Coatings
Estimating Change Orders, Cost or Opportunity?
Handling Federal Claims and Change Orders
Division 10
Legal Considerations in Construction
10 28 00 – Toilet, Bath, and Laundry Accessories
PART TWO - Division 21 / 22 / 23

PRACTICE COMMON TO SPECIFIC DISCIPLINES 21 00 00 / 22 00 00 / 23 00 00 – Mechanical
Discipline Specific Estimating Procedures Estimate
Division 1 Division 31
General Requirements 31 22 00 – Grading
31 23 16.13 – Excavation and Fill – Trenching
Division 2 31 51 13 – Excavation Support and Protection –
02 80 00 – Facility Remediation Soil Nailing for Bank Stabilization
31 63 16 – Bored Piles – Auger Cast Grout Piles
Division 3 31 63 26 – Bored Piles – Drilled Caissons
03 05 00 – Common Work Results for Concrete
03 10 00 – Concrete Forming and Accessories Division 32
03 20 00 – Concrete Reinforcing 32 10 00 – Sidewalks
03 30 00 – Cast-in-Place Concrete 32 13 00 – Rigid Pavement
03 41 00 – Plant-Precast Structural Concrete 32 16 13 – Concrete Curb and Gutters
03 47 13 – Tilt-up Concrete
Division 33
Division 4 33 30 00 – Sanitary Sewerage
04 05 00 – Common Work Results for Masonry
04 05 13 – Masonry Mortaring PART THREE -
04 20 00 – Unit Masonry PROFESSIONAL ESTIMATING SERVICE SAMPLES
04 21 00 – Clay Unit Masonry
Division 5 PART FOUR -

05 12 00 – Structural Steel Framing ETHICS
Division 6 PART FIVE -

06 10 00 – Rough Carpentry
REFERENCE SOURCES
06 17 00 – Shop-Fabricated Structural Wood
06 20 00 – Finish Carpentry
06 41 00 – Architectural Wood Casework PART SIX -
ASPE PROFESSIONAL ESTIMATOR CERTIFICATION
170
Appendix G
Estimating Forms
171
172
173
174
175
176
ACCEPT THE
CHALLENGE. . .
. . . BE A CPE
Ways to Promote your ASPE Certification
• Display your certificate prominently in your office.
• Note your credential(s) on your professional stationery, business cards, and website.
• Send the sample press release you received to your local newspaper, office newsletter,
or local organizations where you are a member.
• Request to have a letter sent to your Supervisor stating your accomplishment.
• Wear your lapel pin.
• Make a presentation about certification at your next ASPE meeting.
• Participate in career fairs and inform people about estimating and ASPE certification.
• Help your coworkers prepare to achieve their certification.
• Write a short article for your office newsletter or industry related organizations about the
importance of certification.
For more information please visit www.aspenational.org or contact ASPE at

(888) 378-6283 or tanya@aspenational.org.

Nashville, TN 37214
Phone: 888-378-6283 Fax: 615-316-9800 Email: tanya@aspenational.org

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The American Society of Professional Estimators

The American Society of Professional Estimators

An Accredited Program of The Council of Engineering and Specialty Boards

C. History of Certification Program .......................................................................................................................... 7

D. Code of Ethics ........................................................................................................................................................... 9

E. Certification Program Cycle Schedule............................................................................................................... 13

F. Certification Program Process............................................................................................................................. 15

G. ASPE Certification Methodology …………………………………………………………………………..19

H. ASPE Pass/Fail Determination… ………………………………………………………………………….23

I. Questions and Answers........................................................................................................................................ 25

J. The Technical Paper .............................................................................................................................................. 29

K. General Estimating Knowledge Exam (GEK) .................................................................................................. 69

L. Discipline Specific Test (DST).............................................................................................................................. 79

M. Instruction to Examinee and to Proctor............................................................................................................. 89

N. DST Questions & Problems Guidelines and Developments ......................................................................... 93

O. Certification Renewal Program......................................................................................................................... 109

P. Lifetime CPE Status ............................................................................................................................................ 114

Q. Stamp and Seal Program .................................................................................................................................... 115

R. Manual of Standard Estimating Practice (SEP).............................................................................................. 116

S. Appendixes ........................................................................................................................................................... 117

ASPE Certification may be defined as an educational process, which entails an orientation

1. The proctoring of exams in your region.

Operations Planning and Control

Labor Hour Standards

Certification Cycle 1 Cycle 2

Review of Applications by Completed By February 15 August 15

Notification to Candidates Completed By March 1 September 1

Workshop for Candidates Completed By March 30 September 30

Technical Paper Due Date Papers are to be June 15 December 15

Test Results to Candidates Written Notification September 1 May 1

Technical Paper Review These will be issued to

Re-submittal of Deficient Completed By October 15 June 15

Re-Take of GEK and/or Re-take GEK and DST November July

Each candidate seeking certification must meet five basic requirements.

1. Experience—Minimum of Five Years

Communication Skills and knowledge of estimating must be demonstrated to the Certification

CPEs subject to renewal must document active participation in the areas of

Five Steps to Certification

2. Complete Orientation Workshop - Candidates must complete the online orientation

Certification Fee Schedule

Renewal Certification Fee :

GEK Study Guide: $49.00 members or $59.00 non-members

B. Certification Representative may be a Chapter Officer or Chapter Certification Chair. Contact

C. If a candidate wishes to apply for an exception to any requirement of the Certification

Certification by ASPE represents the intersection of protection of the public, fairness to

ASPE’s test management system is designed to enable reconstruction of examinee responses to

How do I apply for Certification?

Is attendance required for the Orientation Workshop?

What costs are associated with Certification?

What does the Certification process entail?

How will I be informed of my acceptance into the Certification Program?

Where are examinations administered?

Why is the Technical Paper required?

Why can't I predetermine a topic for my Technical Paper?

What may I bring to the examination?

What requirements must be successfully completed in order to become a Certified

It is necessary to complete the Professional Evaluation Application and to be accepted to the

How will I be notified of the test results?

Will I receive proof of Certification by the Society?

How long is the Certification valid?

What are the rewards of becoming a Certified Professional Estimator?

What happens if I fail to submit a Technical Paper by the deadline?

“The technical paper provides a way to measure

1. Title Page (Title, Author, Date)

Reviewer:______________Date: Phone: