13 Costly Bidding Mistakes & How to Avoid Them – November 16, 2016 – Kendall Jones

The Morning Blueprint by Construct Connect

Putting together a winning bid proposal is a lot more complicated than putting some numbers together and hoping for the best. Good bid preparation requires a lot of time and effort that involves everything from reading and fully understanding the plans and specifications to accurately estimating costs for labor, materials and equipment. Making even the smallest mistake can mean the difference between having a winning bid proposal and missing out on a coveted project.

– Bidding the Wrong Projects

– Incomplete Bid Forms and Documents

– Inaccurate Takeoffs

– Failing to Visit the Job Site

– Failure to Seek Clarification

– 2+2= Wrong

– Not Evaluating Equipment Needs

– Not Qualifying Subcontractors

– Labour Implications

– Not Factoring in Overtime

– Misunderstanding Material Requirements

– Rushed Bids

– Overlooking Risks

Preparing a winning bid proposal is one of the most vital aspects of success in the construction industry. Yet, many contractors fail to recognize how complex and detail-oriented the bidding process truly is. A bid is not merely a set of numbers; it reflects the contractor’s professionalism, accuracy, and understanding of the project’s full scope. Common mistakes such as bidding the wrong projects, submitting incomplete bid forms, or failing to visit the job site often lead to immediate disqualification or costly oversights. Inaccurate takeoffs, misjudged material requirements, and rushed submissions can drastically reduce profitability and damage client trust. Contractors should also pay close attention to equipment needs, ensure subcontractor qualifications, and plan for labor implications, including overtime and workforce shortages. Failing to account for these factors can lead to project delays and budget overruns. Moreover, overlooking risk factors or failing to seek clarification on unclear project details can result in serious contractual and financial consequences. To improve bidding accuracy and ensure compliance, contractors must combine technical precision with sound judgment, proactive communication, and thorough project review. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can secure more projects, protect your margins, and maintain a reputation for reliability and excellence. For more insights on bidding regulations, visit the New Construction Act.