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Free construction bid form template

A construction bid form puts a clear, comparable price on a defined scope of work. A good one states the documents the price is based on, the base bid, alternates and unit prices, exactly what's included and excluded, the schedule and the terms, and it's signed by the bidder. This free template covers all of it in a fillable two-page PDF.

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What goes on a bid form

  • To and from: the owner or GC you're bidding to, and your company, license number and class, and contact.
  • Documents the bid is based on: plan sheets with date and revision, the specs or scope document, addenda received, and the site visit date.
  • Base bid: the amount in words and in numbers.
  • Alternates: each add or deduct option with its amount.
  • Unit prices: a price per unit for work whose quantity might change.
  • Scope: what's included, what's excluded, and your assumptions and clarifications.
  • Schedule: how soon you can start after notice to proceed, the duration, and long-lead items with their lead times.
  • Terms: how long the price is good for, payment terms (deposit, progress, retention), insurance or bond, and who pays permits and fees.
  • Attachments: a checklist for the certificate of insurance, W-9, license copy, bid bond, schedule, sub list and references.
  • Signatures: the bidder signs to stand behind the price; the owner or GC signs to accept it.

How to write a bid that wins and holds up

  • List exclusions plainly. Most bid disputes are about what someone assumed was included.
  • Name the plan revision and addenda you priced. If the drawings change, your price can too.
  • Say how long the price is good for. Material prices move.
  • Fill every blank. Write n/a rather than leaving one empty.

Questions builders and trades ask

What should a subcontractor bid include?

The documents it's based on, a base bid, any alternates and unit prices, clear inclusions and exclusions, the schedule, payment and other terms, the required attachments, and the bidder's signature.

What are alternates on a bid?

Priced options the owner can add to or take away from the base scope, such as an upgraded finish or a deleted item, each with its own add or deduct amount. They let the owner adjust scope without rebidding.

What are unit prices on a bid?

A price per unit (per square foot, per linear foot, per each) for work whose quantity may change. If the quantity changes, the price changes by the unit price.

How long should a bid be valid?

State it on the bid. Pick a period you can stand behind given how fast your material prices move, and reprice after it runs out.

Is a signed bid a contract?

Usually it's an offer. On this form, a signed copy plus a contract or a written notice to proceed starts the work. It isn't legal advice; have your own contract reviewed for your state.

Free for trade contractors

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Free to use, print and share. The Excel files open in Google Sheets too. These are templates, not legal advice; have your own contracts reviewed for your state.