Tender-at-a-Glance Checklist

Before preparing your bid, study the tender document and capture these points with financial implications. Use this as a checklist for every tender.

1. Client, Consultant, and Architect

  • Client name and department
  • Consultant and architect (if any)
  • Reputation and payment history
  • Past disputes or delays

2. Commercial Terms

  • Contract type (item rate, lump sum, etc.)
  • Risk sharing
  • Performance guarantees or security

3. Advances

  • Mobilization advance (%, timing, recovery)
  • Plant and machinery advance
  • Material advance
  • Interest, if any, on advances

4. Taxes and Duties

  • GST applicability and slab
  • Local taxes
  • Exemptions or special schemes

5. Payment Terms

  • Stage payments (RBIs)
  • Retention (% and release)
  • Payment timelines (e.g., 30/45/60 days)
  • Delay in payment risk

6. Escalation, LD, and Bonus

  • Escalation formula and base indices
  • Liquidated damages (rate, cap)
  • Bonus or early completion incentive

7. Arbitration and Dispute Resolution

  • Jurisdiction
  • Process and timelines
  • Cost implications

8. Insurance

  • Required policies (contractor’s all risk, third party, etc.)
  • Sum insured
  • Premium estimate

9. Site Facilities

  • Power (included or excluded)
  • Water
  • Storage and sheds
  • Access and staging area

10. Client-Supplied Materials

  • Materials issued by client
  • Scope and quantities
  • Rates or adjustments
  • Delivery and storage

Tips

  • Focus on items that affect cost, cash flow, or risk
  • Cross-check with drawings and BOQ
  • Resolve queries in pre-bid meeting

Next Steps