Scopes of Work - Deeper Dive

Originally posted on LinkedIn 3/17/25

Last week’s BeastBit on Scopes of Work generated a few inquiries from the builder side, specifically asking, “how much detail is really needed?”

Answer: as detailed as necessary such that subcontractors/suppliers may not substitute build specs or products absent written builder approval. Remember, if your Scope of Work does not call out your desired specs in detail, all you can expect is that the subcontractor will merely pass inspection.

Real world example:

As a window and door vendor for many years, I’ve witnessed most new construction competitors using literally the cheapest (i.e. $0.99/tube) acrylic caulk on the market. They could, because the builder(s) did not specify desired, upgraded sealants.

If your scope merely states "seal windows at flange" you'll get any sealant your subcontractor chooses! The scope is a part of the contract and must be so detailed that a subcontractor or supplier has no plausible deniability for under-delivering.

And BONUS: tighter scopes of work actually level the subcontractor estimating playing field as bidding ‘apples to apples’ offers the builder realistic bid comparison and review.

Looking for guidance in creating winning Scopes of Work? We can help!