Anatomy of a Successful Proposal – Scope Of Work

Scope – Building(s) to be inspected:

Each proposal must adequately identify the property, building(s), and/or structure(s) to be inspected.  While each assessment will vary in scope, some commercial property assessments may have multiple structures or buildings to be included (or excluded) in the scope.  Where possible, actual physical addresses should be used, but on occasion only a description and general location may be possible.  Such an instance may include a large multi-family building which is conditioned by a boiler system located in a separate utility structure or building.  Both structures may require inspection per the client’s request and should be indicated or referenced as such in the proposal.  Separate reports for both buildings are not required under ASTM International E2018 standards unless otherwise requested by the client.  Large commercial projects constructed in separate phases (or different periods in the property history) however, should be documented with separate reports and again referenced or indicated as such in the proposal so the client has a clear understanding of what will be provided.

Overall Scope of Work
Ultimately a professional proposal simply describes or details the scope of work. The scope should have already been acknowledged through prior communications with the client. We are simply reducing the scope of work to writing so that all interested parties are fully aware of what is to be inspected and expected from the provided services.  The scope will detail all structures, components, systems, sub-systems, grounds, ancillary services, etc.  Itemizing this section is best or preferred so that interested parties have no disagreement (figure 1.4).

The scope of work will also define core services and ancillary services to be provided during the property condition assessment. These items may include occupant and maintenance personnel interviews, document research, reserve schedules, etc. (Fig 1.5)

Figure 1.4

 
Itemized Scope Example
The following components and scope consist of our recommended minimum property condition assessment.  Should client wish to reduce this scope per their acceptable risk tolerance, client may choose so in writing, and an amended, mutually agreed proposal with adjusted fees will be provided promptly.

  • ADA Compliance
  • Ancillary Roof(s)
  • Balconies
  • Ceiling/Walls/Window Coverings
  • Common Areas
  • Curbing/Wheel Stops
  • Doors/Frames
  • Electrical Systems
  • Emergency Lighting & Signage
  • Expansion Joints
  • Exterior Eaves, Flashing, Soffits, Fascia
  • Exterior Walls
  • Facades/Exterior Wall Systems
  • Fire/Life Safety (NOTE:  performed by specialist consultant).
  • Fire Suppression Systems (NOTE:  performed by specialist consultant).
  • Flatwork/Stairs/Railings
  • Flashings/Details
  • Floor Coverings
  • Foundations
  • Garages or utility buildings

HVAC Systems (NOTE:  performed by specialist consultant).

Figure 1.4

Overall Scope of Work

Ultimately a professional proposal simply describes or details the scope of work.  The scope should have already been acknowledged through prior communications with the client. We are simply reducing the scope of work to writing so that all interested parties are fully aware of what is to be inspected and expected from the provided services.  The scope will detail all structures, components, systems, sub-systems, grounds, ancillary services, etc.  Itemizing this section is best or preferred so that interested parties have no disagreement (figure 1.3).

Figure 1.3
Itemized Scope Example
The following components and scope consist of our recommended minimum property condition assessment.  Should client wish to reduce this scope per their acceptable risk tolerance, client may choose so in writing, and an amended, mutually agreed proposal with adjusted fees will be provided promptly.

  • ADA Compliance
  • Ancillary Roof(s)
  • Balconies
  • Ceiling/Walls/Window Coverings
  • Common Areas
  • Curbing/Wheel Stops
  • Doors/Frames
  • Electrical Systems
  • Emergency Lighting & Signage
  • Expansion Joints
  • Exterior Eaves, Flashing, Soffits, Fascia
  • Exterior Walls
  • Facades/Exterior Wall Systems
  • Fire/Life Safety (NOTE:  performed by specialist consultant).
  • Fire Suppression Systems (NOTE:  performed by specialist consultant).
  • Flatwork/Stairs/Railings
  • Flashings/Details
  • Floor Coverings
  • Foundations
  • Garages or utility buildings
  • HVAC Systems (NOTE:  performed by specialist consultant).