Tender packages

A tender package is what a builder prices from. It lets you ask several builders to price the same job from the same documents, so the prices can be compared fairly. It is built around scope, specification, schedules and quantities, because that is what a price depends on, and the specification is written to meet the Building Regulations so every builder prices a compliant building. There are two packages, basic and complete. Each one lists the drawings and documents the builder receives. Choose the level in the quote calculator.

Basic tender package

For small, straightforward jobs where the builder needs a clear scope and an outline specification to give a sound price.

Drawings the builder receives

Site location map and site layout plan
Existing and proposed floor plans, dimensioned
Proposed roof plan
Existing and proposed elevations, all sides
Proposed sections through the key areas
Drawing register listing every sheet and its revision

Scope, specification and documents

Written scope of works, element by element, so every builder prices the same job
Outline specification: the main materials, finishes and standard of work for each part of the building
Window and door schedule with sizes and positions
Exclusions and provisional sums listed clearly
Pricing form for the builder to price each element and the total
Instructions to tenderers: return date, how long the price is held and how the tenders will be assessed

Not included in this package: a bill of quantities, a full trade by trade specification, answers to builders’ questions, or a comparison report.

Complete tender package

The usual choice for houses, extensions and small commercial fitouts, where the price must be tight and the builders’ prices easy to compare. It includes everything in the basic package, plus:

Additional drawings

Key construction details for the external wall, ground floor, roof and window and door junctions, enough for the builder to price the build up
Structural openings and beam positions, shown from the engineer’s information

Additional specification, schedules and service

Full specification of materials and workmanship, trade by trade, with named products or approved equivalents
Door, window, ironmongery and finishes schedules
Bill of quantities, so every builder prices identical quantities
Prime cost and provisional sum schedule
Answers to builders’ questions during the tender period
Comparison report on the returned tenders, with a recommendation

Not included in this package: a site visit with the builders, negotiation or contract preparation. The detailed building drawings are part of the construction drawings package.

Not sure which package suits you? Send a quote request and we will advise.

How the tender stage works

I prepare the tender documents, with the Building Regulations requirements shown in the scope and specification
You choose the builders to invite
The same documents go to every builder, with a return date
Builders price from the same information, so the prices can be compared like for like
With the complete package, I answer the builders’ questions and report on the returned tenders

Why tender at all

Without a tender package, each builder prices what they think you want, and the prices cannot be compared. With one, differences in price come from the builder, not from a different reading of the job. It also puts exclusions and provisional sums in writing before the contract, which is where many disputes on site begin.

Where this fits

Tender comes after planning and before construction. The detailed building drawings builders work from on site are in the construction drawings package.

Design Planning Construction