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A scope takeoff checklist by CSI division
The divisions estimators most often under-scope on commercial work, and the question to ask on each one before the bid goes out.
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A scope list is only useful if it is complete. These are the divisions where scope most often goes missing on commercial and institutional bids, and one question to ask on each before you send packages.
01 General Requirements
Who is carrying temporary facilities, cleanup, and closeout documentation? If it is not on a sub, it is on you.
03 Concrete
Are slab-on-grade, foundations, and site concrete split the way your subs bid them? Vapor barrier and under-slab insulation are the usual orphans.
05 Metals
Miscellaneous metals — railings, embeds, lintels — are frequently excluded by the structural steel bidder. Confirm who has them.
07 Thermal and Moisture Protection
Roofing warranty terms and flashing at penetrations. The spec section usually says more than the roof plan does.
08 Openings
Hardware, glazing, and hollow metal frames are three different subs on many jobs. Make sure the frames are not counted twice or zero times.
09 Finishes
Floor prep and moisture mitigation. Almost always a scope fight later if it is not written down now.
22 / 23 / 26 Plumbing, HVAC, Electrical
Controls, commissioning, and low-voltage. Ask which bidder is carrying each, in writing.
31 / 32 / 33 Earthwork, Exterior, Utilities
Where does the site sub stop and the utility sub start? Five feet outside the building is a real answer; “at the building” is not.
Working from a draft
PreConstruct reads the plans and specs and drafts the scope list by division, with the source page on each line, so this checklist becomes a review instead of a blank sheet. See AI Scope Takeoff.
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