CSLB C-27 Landscaping ContractorPlanning and EstimatingEasy
A C-27 contractor is evaluating a landscape plan that includes extensive planting of mature trees and shrubs. The project site has limited access for heavy equipment and requires significant hand digging. The contractor should MOST critically adjust the estimate for which of the following?
- AHigher labor hours for planting and soil preparation.
- BExtended project schedule for plant establishment.
- CIncreased material costs for larger root balls.
- DAdditional permits for tree transportation.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Higher labor hours for planting and soil preparation.
Limited access requiring hand digging for extensive mature plantings will significantly increase the labor hours required for excavation, planting, and backfilling compared to using heavy equipment. This direct impact on labor is typically the most critical cost adjustment.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. While plant establishment takes time, this is a general project schedule consideration, whereas limited access directly inflates labor for the planting process itself.
- C. Material costs for larger root balls are a given for mature trees, but limited access primarily impacts labor to install them.
- D. Permits for tree transportation are generally based on tree size, not site access limitations, and are a separate cost factor.
Site Access & Labor Impact
Restricted site access for heavy equipment significantly increases labor costs for tasks requiring excavation, material transport, and installation, as these activities must be performed manually or with smaller, less efficient tools.
- Limited access directly inflates labor hours.
- Hand digging is slower and more expensive than machine work.
- Impacts material handling and placement efficiency.
Memory trick: Tight spots mean more hands-on, more hours, more cost.