Indirect costs in construction: control and planning

In construction, cost management is a key element of the success of any project. In addition to the direct costs of materials and labor, the project also includes indirect costs, which often remain less obvious, but no less important.

These costs, although not directly related to the performance of individual construction tasks, play an important role in ensuring the smooth running of work. Understanding and managing indirect costs is critical to the financial sustainability and success of the project.

The main point

Indirect costs are expenses that cannot be directly attributed to a specific construction operation or material. These costs relate to:

  • project management;
  • management of administrative expenses;
  • ensuring security;
  • equipment rentals, etc.

Indirect costs in construction can be administrative, insured, etc. Administrative expenses include office staff, accountants, lawyers, as well as office rental and communications costs. These costs are necessary for project management, but they cannot be directly linked to the performance of a specific construction work. Insurance of the construction site, liability insurance, as well as taxes on employees’ salaries are indirect costs. They provide legal and financial protection for the company, but do not relate to a specific construction task. Companies often rent construction equipment or storage facilities to store materials. Such expenses are also indirect, since they are necessary for the implementation of the project as a whole.

Proper management of indirect costs is important for the success of any construction project. Construction companies can use various tools to optimize cost management. One of these tools is Finoko. The platform offers convenient solutions for controlling all types of costs, including indirect ones.