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  Steven Whitaker October 9, 2009 at 1:35pm

  I do use Spon estimating books but I always find that there is a lot missing, e.g. there is no entries for larch lap fencing or even picket fencing, only chain mail. I must say though I do find them very accurate. My first landscaping job after college was a complete front and back garden. It took me two weeks on my own with only hand tools, and the estimate was almost correct to the pound and to the hour worked, so I was very pleased!
  
  Steven
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  David Beasley Garden Design October 9, 2009 at 1:47pm

  I used to be a landscape estimator for a living and worked for Groundwork. We didn't use Spons but relied on our own research/experience to compile our rates. All the info was fed into a computerised estimating system called LibeRate which was sold by a guy called Sam Hassal who just so happens to write the landscaping version of Spons.
  
  All Contract Managers I have come across believe that Spon's prices are on the high side, especially for domestic gardens.
  
  I would say, use your own judgement and compile your prices on an excel spreadsheet. Only you will know what the local prices are for materials and how fast you work on-site!
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  Steven Whitaker October 9, 2009 at 1:53pm

  I agree that sometimes the price is sometimes a tad high and don't always use the "Overheads and Profit" mark-up to its' full extent, however the one I have is based on £15 per hour which is what I charge anyway.
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  Sustainable Land Management October 9, 2009 at 5:10pm

  We try and use Spons and also attached often comes in handy - FC rates for England, and Inner and outer London - as anything that gives a base price is helpful in justifying certain costs. Certainly for tree surgeons and estate operations the FC costs are often more than what is quoted and as such the info can be relayed back to clients who baulk at estimates. It is a real shame that the Landscaping industry does not have such quango assistance as such info can only really come from a governmental source to avoid legal issues.