Map proposal statements to estimate support
List each proposal inclusion, exclusion, allowance, alternate, and owner responsibility. Point monetary items to estimate codes and nonprice statements to the controlling scope decision.
General proposal language should not override a more specific estimate treatment by accident. Use the construction basis of estimate guide as the related control and keep the record with the estimate revision under review.
Find silent differences before issue
Look for work carried in cost but excluded in the proposal, work promised in the proposal but absent from cost, and allowances described differently in the two records. Check schedule and logistics statements that may imply labor or indirect costs beyond the estimate basis.
AACE recommended practices offer general estimating references. The project documents, contractor procedures, and approved estimate remain the controlling basis for the decision.
| Review field | Required record |
|---|---|
| Proposal item | Inclusion, exclusion, or allowance |
| Estimate support | Code and approved amount |
| Difference | Scope or wording mismatch |
| Resolution | Change, owner, and revision |
Freeze matching revisions
Resolve each difference through a cost change, proposal edit, or approved exception. Record who made the decision.
Freeze the proposal and estimate revision together so a later edit cannot separate the commercial offer from the number that supports it. Use the construction estimate deliverable register as the related control and keep the record with the estimate revision under review.
