# Level subcontractor bids and pick the right sub

A side-by-side bid leveling sheet that normalizes scope gaps between sub quotes so I compare true cost, not just the lowest number.

- Topic: Thinking & Decisions
- Framework: Few-Shot
- Level: Standard
- Tags: Plan, Fill-in Template, Interactive
- Source: https://www.thinkwithprompt.com/prompts/level-subcontractor-bids-and-pick-the-right-sub

## Prompt

```text
Help me level subcontractor bids for a trade package.

**Trade package and scope:** [e.g. "Division 22 plumbing", "drywall and acoustical ceilings"; key spec sections and drawings]
**Bids received:** [PASTE EACH BID: bidder, base price, inclusions, exclusions, alternates, qualifications, schedule, bond/insurance]
**My estimate for this scope:** [AMOUNT OR "none"]
**Must-haves:** [e.g. "bondable", "union", "able to start by June", "EMR under 1.0"]
**History with these subs:** [PAST PERFORMANCE NOTES - or "new"]

Steps:
1. Build a scope checklist from the spec and drawings, then mark for each bidder: Included, Excluded, Silent, or Qualified.
2. Put a dollar value on each gap or exclusion so bids are compared on the same scope (use my estimate or ask me; never invent a number - mark [PRICE NEEDED]).
3. Normalize alternates, allowances, and unit prices.
4. Compare non-price factors: schedule commitment, manpower, safety record, bonding, insurance, financial strength, past performance, and how many qualifications they attached.
5. Flag bids that are suspiciously low versus the others or my estimate, and list questions to ask before award.

Return:
- A leveling table: Scope item by bidder, with Included/Excluded/Silent and adjustment values.
- Adjusted totals by bidder.
- A risk notes column for non-price factors.
- A recommendation with reasons, and a scope review meeting agenda for the preferred bidder to lock exclusions before award.

Keep all bid information confidential; do not suggest sharing one bidder's pricing with another.
```

## What to fill in

- AMOUNT OR "none"
- PAST PERFORMANCE NOTES - or "new"
- PRICE NEEDED

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