What can be a consequence of not adjusting estimates for inflation?

Failing to adjust estimates for inflation can lead to the potential underfunding of a project. Inflation affects the cost of materials, labor, and overall project expenses over time. If an estimator does not factor in inflation, the initial budget may reflect prices that are significantly lower than what they will actually be when the project is executed.

As the costs for materials and labor rise due to inflation, the funds allocated based on outdated estimates may become insufficient to cover the project's needs. This can result in financial shortfalls, impacting project completion, quality, and overall viability. Properly adjusting estimates for inflation is crucial for ensuring that the budget reflects the true future costs of completing the project, thus safeguarding against potential underfunding.