How to Prepare a Scope of Work

in Construction
In the construction industry, a scope of work is a list of all the tasks included in a specific company's contract. For example, a scope of work for a door contractor will list all the types of doors, frames and hardware that the contractor is to provide, as well as installation, delivery and other general conditions of the work. A scope of work is prepared by general contractors and is used for both the bidding process and while writing the contracts themselves. While it takes a bit of basic construction knowledge to create an accurate scope, the task itself is not too difficult for the average project manager or assistant. Janks Construction can help you with all of your construction needs.

Difficulty: Moderate


1. Review the drawings for the project as well as the specifications book. The only way to prepare an accurate scope of work is to know exactly what tasks are involved in the project. Make notes of any unusual items you see that you think the subcontractors may have overlooked.

2. Find an appropriate template for your scope. If your company doesn't have its own scope template, use a simple word processing document. Include your company's name and the company the scope is being issued to, as well as the name of the project and the date. You can then list each scope item individually in a numbered list.

3. Create a general scope that is applicable to all trades. There are certain tasks on a construction job that every subcontractor must complete. These may include cleanup, safety issues, project meetings, wage reports, schedules or permits. Whatever items are specific to the job or are critical to a successful project should be listed in the general scope of work. As you prepare scopes for individual trades, the general scope should be included as a separate section.

4. Prepare a scope for each trade. In the door and hardware example, you would include all the tasks the door contractor is expected to perform. This could include supplying and installing all hollow metal frames, wood doors and hardware.

5. Look for areas that are potentially overlapping between two contractors, and be sure to clarify in the scope who is responsible for what task. With doors and hardware, for example, a separate storefront contractor may provide aluminum entrances. If so, specify in each scope that will be providing the hardware for these aluminum entrances. Another potential overlap in this category is locks and hardware for cabinets and furnishings. Clarify with both trades who are to provide this hardware.

6. Include non-construction tasks that are specific to one trade. With your electrical and mechanical contractors, for example, you will want to include applicable permits for both, and you'll also want to add a scope item specifying that each is responsible for coordinating their work with the other.

7. Review the scope with each contractor to ensure all items are understood, and that the contractor is in agreement with the scope. This is usually done at a scope review meeting, which is held before a formal contract is awarded.

Improve your home with Janks Construction

Read more at the source: ehow dot com/how_5089839_prepare-scope-work Janks Construction was founded 12 years ago by Steve Janks. Janks Construction has over 25 years experience in converting homes to dream homes in the San Diego area.

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This article was published on 2010/08/19