What is a Revit quantity takeoff?+
A Revit quantity takeoff is the process of extracting precise material quantities directly from an Autodesk Revit BIM model using the model's built-in schedule and parameter tools. Every element in a Revit model - walls, slabs, beams, ducts, pipes, conduits - carries embedded data including its area, volume, length, weight, and material specification. CES extracts this embedded data automatically and organizes it into a complete Bill of Quantities (BOQ) by CSI division, ready for cost estimation or procurement.
How does Revit extract quantities?+
Revit stores quantity data in element parameters - every wall has a "Area" parameter that calculates its face area automatically, every beam has a "Volume" and calculated weight, every pipe has a "Length" parameter. CES uses Revit's Schedule feature to create element schedules that pull these parameters into a structured table, then exports to Excel. We also use Revit's built-in Material Takeoff schedule type for material-by-material quantity reports. The result is a complete BOQ where every number comes from the model geometry, not from manual measurement.
How accurate is a Revit quantity takeoff?+
Revit quantity takeoff accuracy depends on model LOD and element completeness. At LOD 300 - fully developed geometry with material specifications - Revit takeoffs achieve ±5-10% accuracy compared to final construction quantities. At LOD 400 - fabrication-level detail - accuracy improves to ±2-5%. CES documents the accuracy level for every takeoff and flags any model elements that are incomplete or missing specification data that would affect quantity accuracy.
Can you take off quantities from an IFC file?+
Yes. CES accepts IFC files from any BIM platform - ArchiCAD, Tekla, Bentley, or any software that exports to the IFC standard. IFC files contain the same element parameter data as native Revit files - walls, slabs, beams, and MEP systems all carry their geometry and properties. We use specialized IFC reader tools to extract quantities from IFC exports with the same accuracy as native Revit takeoffs.
What if my Revit model is not complete?+
Incomplete models produce incomplete BOQs - and CES documents every gap. We deliver a Model Gap Report with every takeoff that clearly identifies which elements are missing specification data, which areas appear under-modeled compared to the design intent visible in drawings, and which parameters need to be completed for a fully accurate BOQ. You get a clear picture of model completeness alongside your quantity report.
How long does a Revit takeoff take?+
CES delivers Revit quantity takeoffs within 24 to 48 hours. Single-discipline takeoffs (architectural, structural, or MEP only) typically deliver in 24 hours. Full multi-discipline BOQs for large commercial projects take up to 48 hours. Rush 24-hour delivery is available for all disciplines at a 20 percent premium. Exact delivery time confirmed when we provide your fixed quote after assessing your model.
What is the difference between a BOQ and a material takeoff?+
A Bill of Quantities (BOQ) is a comprehensive list of all work items in a construction project, organized by CSI division, including quantities, units, and sometimes pricing - used for competitive bidding and contract administration. A material takeoff (MTO) focuses specifically on material quantities by type and specification - used for procurement and purchasing. CES provides both from your Revit model - a full BOQ for bidding and a material schedule organized by specification for procurement.
Is my Revit model confidential?+
Absolutely. We sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement before opening any Revit file - every client, every project, without exception. Your model contains your design intent, proprietary details, structural calculations, and client information. All of that is completely protected. Your model files are never shared, distributed, or used for any purpose other than producing your BOQ.