How to Improve MEP Subcontractor Bids

Our carefully-planned engineering designs are worthless to our clients if no one is available to build them.  Currently, massive amounts of investment are pouring into construction, but the construction industry is struggling to find skilled labor.  In some markets, finding qualified subcontractors in particular can be challenging.  

Below are some tips for helping owners hire qualified contractors that can build their projects on time and on budget:

1.      Maintain good relationships with contractors and their subs on your current projects. Respond consistently and be collaborative in resolving issues that may come up, and they will be more likely to bid on your next project.  Good subs likely have several projects to choose from at any given time – create a good working environment so they want to work with you and your client.  

2.      Always provide clear, concise construction documents with enough detail to avoid any guesswork on the bidder’s end. 

3.      Communicate with contractors prior to bid (where allowed).  Answer the phone and respond to RFIs in a timely manner.  In general, questions during bidding should be encouraged, as they show that the contractor is paying attention and can improve the bid. 

4.      Balance innovation with more conventional “tried-and-true” methods.  We should always be pushing the envelope to achieve better buildings, but also recognize that if we stray too far from conventional approaches, we may be limiting our pool of potential contractors for that project.  As such, we need to be able to justify any unusual methods or equipment as in our client’s best interest. 

5.      Allow substitutions where appropriate.  Avoid unnecessary “proprietary” or “restrictive” specifications or language.  For example, consider allowing a 2-pipe VRF system as a substitute for a 3-pipe system, provided it meets the same performance specifications.   

6.      Help manage client expectations with regards to budget and schedule.  Many contractors are avoiding fixed-bid delivery right now, and costs are difficult to predict.  Ensure your client has adequate contingency built into the budget and schedule. 

The construction industry is a seller’s market right now.  We can better serve our clients by being the builder’s first choice when deciding which projects to bid.