How to Use a Scope of Work Like a Pro (and Avoid Contractor Headaches)

Question

Does anyone have advice on what not to do when putting together a solid scope of work? Is it best practice to start with a simple template and modify it as needed for each project?

I would also appreciate hearing any horror stories or lessons learned from a poorly written scope of work and how things went wrong. All opinions, insights, and advice are welcome.

Thanks in advance, BiggerPockets family.

Jasmine Benford · Answer

I would also try to get to know the subs your GC is using. Horror story: once the house was finished, someone broke into the house stole the stove. They tried to steal the dishwasher too but may have ran out of time. I believe it was an inside job of someone working on the house (for many reasons). So I went and installed a Simplisafe security system with cameras. I required the GC to text me the name of the person who needed to get in for minor fixes, during the repair period once we had an offer, etc. happy to share that I closed on that property yesterday and I'll be switching up the scope of work and responsibilities a bit more moving forward. I'll also be frequenting the the next property.

Donald Nichols · Answer

Thank you, friend, for your help and support. I know it's not hard, and I am probably overthinking the whole thing, but with each helpful comment from a friend, I gain more confidence to make my dreams a reality, so thank you, friend.

Chris Seveney · Answer

We start with a basic template and the only thing we update is the specific scope of work. For example, schedule who is responsible for water, toilets, dumpsters, construction work hours, general condition, items, clean up on a daily basis, all aspects of the project that are common are in the Bass scope of work and we update the specific scope of work. For example, painting would have a much different scope of work than flooring.