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When evaluating bids for a commercial construction project, leveling the bids is a crucial step that ensures you’re comparing them accurately. However, key differences are often overlooked, which can significantly impact the outcome of your project.

In this article, we’ll explore the Top 3 common items frequently missed during bid leveling. By focusing on these, you’ll be better equipped to make more informed decisions and avoid costly surprises.

1. Scope of Work and Inclusions/Exclusions in Construction Bids

One of the most critical, yet commonly overlooked, aspects is ensuring each bid covers the same scope of work. Contractors can interpret the project scope differently, leading to variations in what’s included or excluded in their proposals.
Example: Some bids might include demolition, cleanup, and waste disposal, while others might leave these costs out.

Why it Matters:
Differences in inclusions and exclusions can lead to hidden costs and unexpected change orders later in the project. A bid that appears lower initially might not cover essential services, leading to additional expenses down the line.

What You Can Do:

• Review each bid’s inclusions and exclusions carefully.
• Cross-reference against a detailed project scope to ensure all necessary work is covered.
• Ask for clarifications if something seems unclear or missing.

2. Specifications and Quality of Materials

Not all materials are created equal, and bids can vary greatly in the quality and specifications of materials proposed. One contractor might quote high-end finishes, while another might offer more budget-friendly alternatives that don’t meet your project’s standards.

Why it Matters:
Material quality directly affects the project’s longevity and final appearance. Lower-priced bids might save money by using inferior materials, but this could result in higher maintenance costs or the need for future upgrades.

What You Can Do:

• Create a checklist of required material specifications and finishes.
• Use this checklist to verify each bid meets your project’s standards.
• If you notice discrepancies, request revised bids with uniform specifications for accurate comparisons.

3. Supervision and Project Management

Another commonly missed item is the level of supervision and project management included in the bid. Some contractors provide full-time, on-site supervision, while others might only offer part-time oversight, which could lead to potential delays or issues going unnoticed.

Why it Matters:
Full-time supervision ensures better management of subcontractors, quicker problem-solving, and smoother project execution. However, this often comes with a higher cost. Part-time supervision might reduce the bid price, but it can increase the risk of project delays and affect quality.

What You Can Do:
• Clarify with each contractor what type of supervision and project management is included.
• Determine whether the level of supervision aligns with your project’s complexity.
• Factor this into your bid leveling to account for the true value of full-time vs. part-time oversight.

Leveling bids in commercial construction is about more than just comparing numbers. It’s about ensuring each proposal offers a comprehensive, quality-driven solution that aligns with your project’s requirements. By focusing on these Top 3 commonly missed items—scope of work, material specifications, and supervision—you can make more confident and informed decisions, ultimately setting your project up for success.

Discover the story behind G3 Construction and see why we’re the leader in South Florida commercial interior contracting. Visit our website at www.G3construction.net and follow us on social media for the latest project updates and company news.

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