Open multilingual construction cost database for AI agents. 55K+ work items, 27K+ resources, 9 languages. Semantic search via Qdrant vector DB. Enables cost estimation from descriptions, photos, and CAD (BIM). Connects to n8n pipelines for automated workflows.
git clone https://github.com/datadrivenconstruction/OpenConstructionEstimate-DDC-CWICR.gitOpen multilingual construction cost database for AI agents. 55K+ work items, 27K+ resources, 9 languages. Semantic search via Qdrant vector DB. Enables cost estimation from descriptions, photos, and CAD (BIM). Connects to n8n pipelines for automated workflows.
[{"step":"Prepare your project specifications. Gather all available documents including architectural drawings (DWG/PDF), BIM models (Revit/IFC), and project scope descriptions. For best results, ensure your documents are in [LANGUAGE] or provide bilingual references.","action":"Upload your project files to a vector storage system (e.g., Qdrant) connected to OpenConstructionEstimate-DDC-CWICR. Tag documents with metadata like [PROJECT_PHASE], [LOCATION], and [SYSTEM_TYPE] for precise semantic search.","tips":["For CAD/BIM files, extract quantities directly from model properties rather than relying on manual takeoffs","Include photos of site conditions and existing structures to improve accuracy of demolition estimates","Specify regional location (e.g., 'Berlin metropolitan area') to get localized cost adjustments"]},{"step":"Define your estimation parameters. Specify the required output format (e.g., Excel, PDF, structured JSON) and any custom cost categories. Set your base currency and include any known constraints like budget limits or material preferences.","action":"Use the prompt template with placeholders filled. For complex projects, break the estimate into phases (e.g., 'Phase 1: Foundations', 'Phase 2: Superstructure') and run separate queries for each.","tips":["Include specific standards (e.g., 'DIN 276 cost classification') if your organization requires compliance","For international projects, specify whether to use local labor rates or expatriate rates","Set up automated cost updates by connecting the database to your ERP system via n8n webhooks"]},{"step":"Run the estimation query and review results. The system will return a structured cost breakdown with itemized components, quantities, and unit prices. Cross-reference with your project documents to validate assumptions.","action":"Use the 'Compare Alternatives' feature to evaluate different material options or construction methods. The system will highlight cost differences and suggest optimal solutions based on your project timeline and quality requirements.","tips":["Pay attention to the 'Risk Factors' section which identifies price volatility and supply chain risks","Use the 'Recommendations' section to prioritize procurement activities and subcontractor negotiations","Export results to Excel for further customization and stakeholder review"]},{"step":"Integrate the estimate into your project workflow. Connect the output to your project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera) or ERP system (e.g., SAP, Oracle) using the provided API endpoints.","action":"Set up automated workflows in n8n to push cost updates to your project dashboard. Configure triggers for cost threshold alerts (e.g., 'Notify if material costs exceed 110% of estimate') and schedule regular cost variance reports.","tips":["Create a 'Cost Control Board' in your project management tool with the estimate as the baseline","Set up monthly cost reconciliation processes comparing actual spend against the estimate","Use the multilingual capabilities to generate estimates in the primary language of your stakeholders"]},{"step":"Maintain and update your estimate throughout the project lifecycle. The system supports real-time adjustments as conditions change, new information becomes available, or market conditions fluctuate.","action":"Use the version control feature to track changes between estimate revisions. Document the rationale for each adjustment in the 'Assumptions' section to maintain audit trails for stakeholders.","tips":["Schedule automated re-estimations when major milestones are achieved (e.g., foundation completion)","Use the photo recognition feature to update site conditions and adjust demolition estimates accordingly","Archive previous versions with clear version numbers (e.g., 'V1.2 - Q2 2024 Pricing')"]}]
No install command available. Check the GitHub repository for manual installation instructions.
git clone https://github.com/datadrivenconstruction/OpenConstructionEstimate-DDC-CWICRCopy the install command above and run it in your terminal.
Launch Claude Code, Cursor, or your preferred AI coding agent.
Use the prompt template or examples below to test the skill.
Adapt the skill to your specific use case and workflow.
Generate a detailed construction cost estimate for [PROJECT_DESCRIPTION]. Use the OpenConstructionEstimate-DDC-CWICR database to identify relevant work items, resources, and unit costs. Include material quantities, labor hours, and total costs in [CURRENCY]. For any ambiguous items, suggest alternatives with justification. Format the output as a structured cost breakdown with sections for [CATEGORY_1], [CATEGORY_2], etc. Reference [LANGUAGE] sources where applicable.
### Construction Cost Estimate: Mid-Rise Office Building in Berlin, Germany **Project Scope:** 12-story office building with 2 underground parking levels, total GFA 18,000 m². Construction duration: 18 months. Site conditions: Urban brownfield with existing foundation remnants. Target completion: Q3 2026. **Cost Breakdown (EUR, excluding VAT):** **1. Site Preparation & Foundations** - Demolition of existing structures: 125,000 EUR - Includes hazardous material removal (asbestos survey required per German TRGS 519) - Excavation: 85 m³ @ 14.20 EUR/m³ (DDC CWICR 01-310-0010) - New foundation system (combined raft + piles): 485,000 EUR - 240 piles (30m depth, 600mm diameter) @ 2,020 EUR/pile (DDC CWICR 02-210-0030) - Reinforced concrete raft: 1,250 m³ @ 385 EUR/m³ (DDC CWICR 03-310-0020) - Temporary shoring & dewatering: 97,000 EUR - Includes groundwater control system (DDC CWICR 01-320-0015) **2. Structural Frame** - Reinforced concrete core walls & columns: 1,850,000 EUR - C30/37 concrete: 2,100 m³ @ 155 EUR/m³ (DDC CWICR 03-310-0020) - Rebar B500B: 325 tons @ 1,280 EUR/ton (DDC CWICR 04-410-0010) - Steel composite beams (floor structure): 720,000 EUR - S355 steel: 185 tons @ 3,900 EUR/ton (DDC CWICR 04-420-0025) **3. Building Envelope** - Curtain wall system (double-glazed, aluminum): 1,420,000 EUR - 3,200 m² @ 445 EUR/m² (DDC CWICR 05-510-0030) - Roofing (green roof system): 385,000 EUR - Includes waterproofing, drainage, and vegetation layers (DDC CWICR 05-520-0045) **4. Mechanical & Electrical Systems** - HVAC (VAV system with heat recovery): 1,150,000 EUR - Includes chillers, AHUs, and ductwork (DDC CWICR 08-810-0020) - Electrical installation: 890,000 EUR - Includes main distribution, lighting, and power systems (DDC CWICR 08-820-0015) **5. Finishes** - Drywall partitions (Type A): 215,000 EUR - 12,500 m² @ 17.20 EUR/m² (DDC CWICR 09-910-0010) - Raised access flooring: 180,000 EUR - 15,000 m² @ 12.00 EUR/m² (DDC CWICR 09-920-0025) **Total Estimated Cost (Excluding Professional Fees & Contingency):** 7,527,000 EUR **Key Assumptions:** 1. Prices reflect Q2 2024 German market rates (DDC CWICR index adjusted for Berlin region) 2. Labor rates include social security contributions (25% on top of base wage) 3. Material costs account for 5% bulk purchase discount 4. All quantities verified against BIM model (Revit 2024) with clash detection applied **Risk Factors:** - Potential 8-12% increase in steel prices due to geopolitical tensions (monitor DDC CWICR 04-420-0025 monthly) - German labor shortages may extend timelines by 2-3 weeks per critical path activity - Soil contamination testing may reveal additional remediation costs (budget 45,000 EUR contingency) **Recommendations:** 1. Initiate procurement for long-lead items (steel beams, curtain wall) within 4 weeks 2. Engage local subcontractors for concrete works to reduce labor costs by 7-10% 3. Schedule BIM coordination meetings bi-weekly to resolve constructability issues early *Sources: DDC CWICR 2024 Edition (German), European Construction Costs 2024 Report, Berlin Chamber of Commerce cost indices.*
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