A final estimate review should be systematic rather than a last-minute scan of the total. A short checklist can catch missing scope, stale quotes and inconsistent assumptions before the bid leaves your desk.
1. Confirm the bid package
Verify the drawing set, specifications, addenda and bid forms match the documents you were instructed to use. Record the latest revision date and make sure superseded sheets are not being used for quantities.
2. Review scope by trade
Walk through the estimate by CSI division or your internal cost-code structure. Confirm that every major scope has a quantity, a price or a clearly documented subcontractor quote.
3. Check quantities
Spot-check high-value quantities and unusual measurements against the plans. Review openings, repeated rooms, roof areas, wall heights and vertical work where omissions are common.
4. Verify pricing inputs
Check supplier quotes, labor assumptions, equipment, subcontractor proposals and quote expiration dates. Separate allowances from firm pricing so uncertainty is visible.
5. Review exclusions and clarifications
Make sure the estimate and proposal say the same thing. If a scope item is excluded, identify who owns it or state the assumption clearly.
6. Reconcile the final number
Check subtotals, alternates, contingencies, overhead, markup and rounding. Compare the final bid against the estimate summary and make sure the submitted form uses the intended values.
Bid-day quick check
- Latest plans and addenda loaded
- Major quantities spot-checked
- Sub bids leveled
- Material quotes reviewed
- Exclusions and assumptions documented
- Alternates and unit prices verified
- Final bid form reconciled
