Tender

What's in a tender pack

A complete tender pack typically includes: invitation to tender letter, instructions to tenderers, drawings (architectural, structural, MEP), specification, Bill of Quantities or pricing schedule, draft contract, programme, project information forms (insurance requirements, prelims, site logistics), and the tender return form.

The pack must be unambiguous — every tenderer must price the same scope. Inconsistencies between drawing and specification, missing details, or unclear scope at tender stage cascade into variations during construction.

Single-stage vs two-stage tender

Single-stage tender: a complete pack is issued; tenderers price; the lowest compliant bid is awarded. Used when design is fully developed (Stage 4 complete).

Two-stage tender: stage 1 selects a contractor based on overheads, programme, and capability; stage 2 develops the design with the contractor and agrees a target price. Used on complex projects where contractor input on buildability is valuable.

Common pitfalls

• Tendering with incomplete information. The temptation to tender before design is finalised is constant. The downstream variation cost almost always exceeds the time saved.
• Not equalising tender returns. Different contractors interpret scope differently. Returns must be compared on a like-for-like basis, with QS adjustments to bring them onto common ground.
• Awarding on price alone. A contractor with a lower price but an unrealistic programme or weak capability often costs more than a higher-priced contractor that delivers cleanly.

Related

• What is a procurement package? →
• What is a BoQ? →
• What is RIBA Stage 4? →