Scope of Works (SOW) in Commercial Construction Tendering: Important, but Often Missed

Expired

What is the SOW in Commercial Construction Tendering Process?

The scope of works in commercial construction tendering is a detailed document that outlines the specific construction obligations, work activities, and tasks that contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers are responsible for completing 1. It provides a clear understanding of the work to be performed, the timeline, and the responsibilities of all parties involved, including contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and clients 2.

Essential Elements of a Well-Defined Scope of Work

A well-defined scope of work typically includes the following essential elements:

  1. Definitions and simple language: Clear and concise terminology to avoid misunderstandings and disputes 1.

  2. Project Overview: A brief summary of the project description, critical objectives, and key deliverables 1.

  3. Milestones & Deliverables: Specific objectives, targets, and milestones that need to be achieved throughout the project, including verification and evaluation criteria 1.

  4. Scope & Technical details: Quantifiable data, budget, technical specifications, and precise tasks with their technical aspects 1.

  5. Schedule & Timeline: A general list of tasks, related tasks, delivery dates, and the overall project duration 1.

  6. Management & Administration: Details on project management, administrative procedures, variation handling, payment schedules, and contract requirements 1.

Scope of Work in Commercial Construction Tendering

The scope of work in commercial construction tendering may include the following elements:

  • Project Deliverables and Milestones: This section outlines the expected project objectives, goals, and deliverables, including sufficient relevant details to give contractors and subcontractors a clear understanding of the project's demands 2.

  • Schedule and Timeline: This section outlines the primary stages throughout the project's timeline, including start and end dates for the overall project and its phases or tasks 2.

  • Expenses and Costs: This section outlines the expenses for software, materials, and other direct costs associated with the project 2.

  • Reports and Documentation: This section outlines the reporting requirements and documentation needed to track progress and ensure compliance with the project's objectives 2.

  • Hours and Payment Details: This section outlines the hours and payment details for each task, including the payment schedule and terms 2.

  • Project Timeline: This section provides a detailed timeline of the project, including key milestones and deadlines 2.

  • Team Member Roles and Responsibilities: This section outlines the roles and responsibilities of each team member, including the project manager, contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers 2.

  • Assumptions and Dependencies: This section outlines any assumptions or dependencies that may impact the project's timeline or budget 2.

  • Acceptance Criteria: This section outlines the criteria for accepting the completed work, including any testing or inspection requirements 2.

  • Change Management: This section outlines the process for requesting and approving changes to the scope of work 2.

Specific Tasks in Commercial Construction

The scope of works in commercial construction may include the following specific tasks:

  • Demolition and removal of existing structures 3

  • Site grading and excavation 3

  • Concrete work, including foundations 3

  • Structural work, including the installation of beams, columns, and roofing 3

  • Installation of electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems 3

  • Insulation and drywall 3

  • Finishing work, including installing flooring, doors, windows, and finishes such as paint and trim 3

  • Installation of fixtures and appliances 3

  • Final inspections and occupancy 3

  • Project closeout 3

Importance of a Well-Defined Scope of Work

A well-defined scope of work is essential for ensuring the success of a commercial construction project, as it provides a clear understanding of the work to be performed, the timeline, and the responsibilities of all parties involved 2. It helps to mitigate issues, disputes

Select a service to learn more

Planning & Development

Development Management

Early stage involvement designed to reduce client/ developer risk. Focus on budget, feasibility and constructibility.

Design & Documentation

Design Management

Collaborative, efficient coordination of design, documentation and specifications.

Project Management

Project Management

Professional management of construction projects. Focus on accountability, efficiency and risk mitigation.

Construction Services

General Contracting

Flexible project delivery models including construct only (GC), design & construct, construction management or cost-plus

Asset Management

Asset Protection

Asset management, planned and unplanned maintenance, abortive and remedial works, audits and inspections.

HSEQ Management

HSEQ Services

Health, Safety, Environment and Quality system management, auditing and risk analysis

Select your sector of interest to learn more

Aged Care

Aged Care

Aged Care construction and fitout

Childcare

Childcare & ELC

Turnkey Childcare planning, design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

Civil & Environmental

Civil & Environmental

Civil, infrastructure & environmental planning, design and project management, construction and lifecycle maintenance.

Commercial & Mixed-use

Commercial Construction

Commercial building project planning, design management, construction and lifecycle maintenance.

Community & Public

Public Spaces

Community centre & public venues planning, design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

Cultural & Worship

Cultural & Worship

Place of worship & cultural centre design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

Education & Training

Schools & Training Facilities

General & specialist training facility planning, design and project management, construction and lifecycle maintenance.

Hospitality & Restaurants

Hospitality & Restaurants

Restaurant building project planning, design management, construction, fitout, refurbishment and lifecycle maintenance.

Healthcare

Healthcare

Public & private healthcare facility planning, design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

General Practices

GP Clinics

Turnkey medical centre design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

Diagnostic Imaging

Radiology Centres

Radiology clinic, imaging department planning, design and project management, construction and lifecycle maintenance.

Labs & Cleanrooms

ISO & TGA Cleanrooms

Lab & sensitive environment project planning, design management, construction, fitout, refurbishment and lifecycle maintenance.

Industrial & Logistics

Manufacturing & Warehousing

Factories, industrial project planning, design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

Data Centre & Energy Storage

Data Centres, Energy Storage

Data centre, battery research and production design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

Retail & Shopping Centres

Retail & Shopping

Turnkey retail design and project management, construction, fitout and lifecycle maintenance.

Office Buildings

Office fitout

Office space project planning, design management, construction, fitout, refurbishment and lifecycle maintenance.