Plumbing Takeoff Is More Than Just Counting Pipes
Plumbing takeoff isn’t just a pre-bid formality—it’s a critical step in building accurate, risk-free estimates. Every pipe, fitting, valve, and fixture you miss during takeoff can turn into change orders, procurement delays, or budget overruns during construction.
At True Bid Data, we take a precision-first approach to plumbing takeoff, using platforms like PlanSwift and cost databases like RSMeans to ensure every unit is counted, categorized, and costed properly.
What’s Included in a Plumbing Takeoff?
A complete plumbing takeoff includes more than just the visible fixtures. We break down the full system across all relevant construction stages:
- Domestic water piping (hot, cold, and recirculation)
- Sanitary and vent piping
- Natural gas and fuel piping
- Fixtures like sinks, toilets, urinals, mop basins
- Valves, cleanouts, traps, strainers, and supports
- Insulation, sleeves, hangers, and fire stopping
We go beyond fixture schedules and include riser diagrams, detail sections, and equipment submittals—ensuring no scope gaps.
Our Plumbing Takeoff Workflow
Here’s how True Bid Data delivers fast and reliable takeoffs built for estimating:
PlanSwift-Enabled Digital Takeoffs
- Scale-verified pipe routing
- Real-time quantity extraction
- Color-coded systems (water, waste, vent, gas)
Organized Output by CSI Division
- Plumbing components fall under CSI Division 22
- Specialty systems may overlap with Division 21 (Fire Protection) or 23 (HVAC)
- Clear category separation for bidding and subcontracting
RSMeans-Powered Pricing
- Localized material and labor rates
- Time-tested installation factors per unit
- Applied to all fittings, joints, and fixture connections
This triple-tier approach ensures that your estimate is as close to build-ready as it gets.
Key Trade Applications We Support
Electrical takeoff isn’t one-size-fits-all. We tailor each takeoff to fit your project’s sector:
Healthcare Facilities
- Isolation valves and cleanouts per room
- ADA-compliant fixture groupings
- Medical gas and vacuum piping
Schools & Institutions
- Large restroom banks with standard fixture spacing
- Bottle filler integration with cold water
- Hot water loop piping for time-sensitive use
Commercial & Mixed Use
- Gas piping to rooftop units
- Pressure reducing valves and backflow preventers
- Coordination with HVAC condensate and roof drainage
Our team reviews the specs and drawings thoroughly to ensure system intent is preserved throughout the takeoff.
Common Plumbing Takeoff Mistakes We Help Avoid
Even seasoned estimators can run into trouble if they’re not using a structured takeoff process. We help avoid:
- Overlooking vertical pipe runs (risers)
- Underestimating fittings (every 90°, tee, and reducer counts)
- Missing insulation or firestop allowances
- Ignoring fixture rough-in depth and wall buildout
True Bid Data provides detailed coverage, not just quantity. Every inch of pipe and every fitting is there for a reason—and we make sure it’s on your bid.
Why Plumbing Takeoff Accuracy Impacts Profitability
Plumbing systems are one of the most variable and labor-intensive scopes on a project. If your takeoff is off by even 10%, you could be:
- Ordering too much pipe or too few fittings
- Underbidding your labor hours and getting squeezed during install
- Issuing RFIs or change orders to catch up mid-build
With our detailed digital approach, you’ll avoid surprises and be equipped to bid with clarity and confidence.
Deliverables You Can Use Immediately
Each takeoff package we deliver includes:
- Labeled PDF markups
- Scope-by-system breakdowns (DWV, CW, HW, gas)
- Fixture count sheets and pipe/fitting schedules
- Optional import formats for Excel, Sage, Procore
All files are designed to drop directly into your estimating system, procurement flow, or subcontractor quote package.
Partner with True Bid Data for Your Plumbing Takeoff
Working with True Bid Data means choosing a team that’s fluent in MEP coordination, CSI formatting, and RSMeans pricing. We offer:
- Precision takeoffs using industry-leading software
- Location-based pricing and labor factoring
- Quick turnaround on even large-scale plumbing scopes
- Fully exportable formats for easy use
Whether you’re bidding a multifamily high-rise, a warehouse core and shell, or a school restroom renovation, our plumbing takeoffs are designed to help you win work and build efficiently.
Ready to bid smarter? Visit TrueBidData to request a quote for your plumbing takeoff project and get data that works as hard as you do.