Florida’s public education system is constantly expanding with new K–12 schools, charter campuses, and higher education facilities being built or renovated across the state. For contractors, these projects represent steady, high-value opportunities. But bidding on school projects in Florida isn’t like bidding on private commercial work.
Public school projects come with strict compliance requirements, detailed scopes, and tight deadlines. To win these bids and deliver them profitably you need accurate, well-structured estimates that align with state and district expectations.
In this guide, we’ll break down what makes estimating for Florida school projects unique, provide a comparison table, and share actionable tips to help you succeed.
Table: Key Estimating Considerations for Florida School Projects
| Estimating Factor | Why It Matters in Florida Schools | How to Address It in Your Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| CSI Division 26 Formatting | Required for electrical and low-voltage scopes in public bids | Break out takeoffs by CSI section (e.g., 26 05 19, 26 51 00) |
| Prevailing Wage Compliance | Many school districts follow Davis-Bacon or local wage ordinances | Use updated wage rates by county and trade |
| Hurricane Code Requirements | Schools must meet enhanced wind load and impact resistance standards | Include impact-rated materials and reinforced assemblies |
| Energy Efficiency Mandates | Florida Energy Code applies to all public buildings | Estimate for LED lighting, HVAC efficiency, and controls |
| Technology Integration | Schools require AV, data, security, and fire alarm systems | Break out Division 27 and 28 scopes separately |
| Fiscal Year Bid Cycles | Most school bids are released in Q2 Q3 to align with budgets | Monitor district calendars and prepare estimates in advance |
| Testing & Commissioning | Required for MEP systems before handover | Include labor and third-party costs for commissioning |
| Background Checks & Badging | Required for all on-site personnel | Include administrative time and fees in general conditions |
| Occupied Campus Constraints | Many projects occur during school hours or summer breaks | Plan for phased work, noise limits, and safety barriers |
Sources: Florida Department of Education, Florida Building Code, NECA Labor Units
Estimating Tips for Florida School Projects
1. Use CSI Division 26 for Electrical and Low-Voltage
Most school districts require estimates to be formatted using CSI MasterFormat. This ensures clarity, simplifies review, and aligns with architectural and engineering specs. Break out your takeoff by section for example:
- 26 05 19: Conductors and Cables
- 26 05 33: Raceways and Boxes
- 26 24 16: Panelboards
- 26 51 00: Interior Lighting
- 27 15 00: Structured Cabling
- 28 31 00: Fire Detection and Alarm
2. Include Prevailing Wage Rates
Many Florida school projects are subject to Davis-Bacon or local prevailing wage laws. Use the latest wage determinations for your county and trade classification. Don’t forget to include fringe benefits and overtime rules.
3. Plan for Enhanced Wind Load Requirements
Florida schools must meet strict hurricane resistance standards. This means impact-rated windows, reinforced doors, and upgraded roofing systems. These materials are more expensive and may require specialized labor.
4. Break Out Technology and Specialty Systems
Modern schools are tech-heavy. Estimators should break out AV, intercom, access control, and fire alarm systems separately often shown on different plan sheets. Use Division 27 and 28 formatting and apply specific labor units.
5. Account for Testing and Commissioning
Florida school districts often require third-party testing and commissioning of MEP systems. Include these costs in your estimate, along with any required documentation or training.
6. Factor in Site Logistics and Phasing
If the school is occupied during construction, you’ll need to plan for phased work, safety barriers, and limited working hours. These constraints can increase labor time and require additional supervision.
Florida School Estimating Checklist
- Format estimate using CSI Division 26 (and 27/28 for low-voltage)
- Use current prevailing wage rates for your county
- Include hurricane-rated materials and assemblies
- Break out AV, fire alarm, and data systems separately
- Include commissioning and testing costs
- Add costs for background checks and badging
- Plan for phased work and occupied campus constraints
- Include general conditions for site logistics and safety
- Validate quantities with architectural and MEP drawings
- Submit estimate in spreadsheet or estimating software format
Real-World Example: Estimating a Florida High School Renovation
A contractor bidding on a high school renovation in Palm Beach County:
- Used CSI Division 26 and 27 formatting for electrical and data scopes
- Included impact-rated storefronts and reinforced roof upgrades
- Applied prevailing wage rates for electricians and HVAC techs
- Broke out fire alarm and intercom systems as separate line items
- Added 15% labor buffer for phased work during school hours
- Included commissioning costs for HVAC and lighting controls
- Submitted a complete, compliant bid and won the project
Why Accurate Estimating Matters in Florida School Bids
| Outcome | Benefit to Contractors |
|---|---|
| Higher Bid Acceptance Rate | CSI formatting and compliance improve review speed |
| Fewer Change Orders | Complete scope coverage reduces surprises during construction |
| Improved Profit Margins | Accurate labor and material pricing prevents overruns |
| Stronger Client Relationships | Professionalism builds trust with school districts and GCs |
| Better Scheduling | Phased planning and labor forecasting improve project delivery |
Final Thoughts
Estimating for Florida school projects requires more than just counting fixtures and wire it demands a deep understanding of public-sector requirements, local codes, and educational facility standards. By formatting your estimates correctly, including all required systems, and planning for real-world constraints, you’ll increase your chances of winning bids and delivering successful projects.
At MSB Estimating, we specialize in Florida school estimating from new K–12 campuses to higher education renovations. Our team delivers fast, CSI-formatted takeoffs that help you win more work and stay compliant.
Need Help With Florida School Estimating?
Contact MSB Estimating today to streamline your public-sector bids with expert takeoff and labor forecasting services.
