Five Pre-Construction Mistakes That Cost Contractors Money
The tendering phase is one of the most critical stages of a construction project. Decisions made during pre-construction directly affect cost control, scheduling, and project success. Yet, under tight deadlines, contractors often rush this phase, leading to avoidable mistakes.
Below are five common pre-construction issues that can negatively impact bids and project outcomes.
1. Incomplete Document Review
Relying only on drawings while overlooking specifications and addenda is a common mistake. Specifications often contain important scope details, material requirements, and performance criteria. Missing this information can lead to pricing gaps and compliance issues.
2. Using Outdated Pricing
Material and labour pricing in Canada can change quickly due to market conditions, availability, and logistics. Using outdated supplier pricing increases the risk of underestimating costs or submitting bids that are no longer competitive.
3. Limited Trade Outreach
Relying on a small group of familiar subcontractors can limit competitiveness. Broader trade outreach increases the likelihood of receiving multiple quotations that align with project scope and current market conditions.
4. Rushed Quantity Take-Offs
Time pressure often leads to incomplete or inaccurate take-offs. Missing quantities or misinterpreting scope can result in cost overruns and disputes during construction.
5. Weak Bid Coordination
A lack of coordination between take-offs, trade pricing, and bid forms can lead to inconsistencies and submission errors. Proper review and organization are essential to ensure bids meet all tender requirements.
Addressing these issues requires a structured and disciplined pre-construction process. Contractors who invest time and resources into accurate estimating and bid coordination are more likely to submit competitive proposals and deliver projects successfully.
Get in touch with The Construction Estimator by filling in our short intake form by clicking here (a new window will open)
