Construction · Defined
Bid leveling
Comparing proposals on a consistent scope and pricing basis to identify differences, exclusions, and assumptions.
Why it matters
The lowest total is not necessarily the lowest cost for the required work. Reconcile allowances, quantities, alternates, and exclusions before comparing proposals.
In practice
A project example
One paving bid includes subgrade preparation while another excludes it; the totals are adjusted to a common scope.
General educational guidance from KOW Building Consultants. Examples are illustrative, not project records. The applicable contract, standard, program, and jurisdiction control the requirements for a specific assignment.