What are Cost Codes?

The term "Cost Code" in the construction industry generally refers to numeric or alphanumeric codes that represent the costs associated with different aspects of a construction project. They are typically assigned across different aspects of a construction project (i.e. within estimates, change orders, punch lists, etc.) as a way to uniformly identify, categorize, and track project labor, material, equipment, subcontractor, and administrative costs. 

Because each construction business is unique, most companies choose to structure their Cost Codes based on the specific needs of their business or projects. However, there are a few coding systems that have been adopted industry-wide such as the Construction Specifications Institute's (CSI) MasterFormat and Uniformat coding systems and the National Association of Home Builders coding system. A few Cost Codes that come from the CSI MasterFormat include:

• 1-10 - Project Manager 
• 2-220 - Site Demolition 
• 3-50 - Concrete Subcontractor 
• 6-200 - Finish Carpentry 

Cost Codes are typically organized within lists that have been traditionally kept in spreadsheets or other documents. However, construction management software platforms like ConstructionOnline have revolutionized the way Cost Codes can be stored and implemented across the different aspects of project management. 

Each construction management platform utilizes Cost Codes differently. ConstructionOnline's Company Cost Codes were designed to help organize construction data across all facets of your construction project management for visibility and reporting purposes. ConstructionOnline's Cost Code system—consisting of Lists, Divisions, and the Codes themselves—ties numerous features together based on the type of work being completed, boosting visibility for each division cost and allowing you to stay organized and informed throughout the construction process. To learn more about ConstructionOnline Cost Codes, visit this overview article. 

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