"A cost estimate is the approximation of the cost of a program, project, or operation. The cost estimate is the product of the cost estimating process. The cost estimate has a single total value and may have identifiable component values. A problem with a cost overrun can be avoided with a credible, reliable, and accurate cost estimate. An estimator is the professional who prepares cost estimates. There are different types of estimators, whose title may be preceded by a modifier, such as building estimator, or electrical estimator, or chief estimator. Other professional titles may also prepare estimates or contribute to estimates, such as quantity surveyors, cost engineers, etc."
RS Means Plumbing Cost Data, 2014 by For more cost estimating resources in the Madigan Library, please refer to the section in the Building & Construction guide.