The Scope

Simply put, the scope is defined as the extent of work to be performed.    It is the meat and potatoes that drives the project's schedule and budget.  If you remember in our master plan; we actually started to loosely develop it with the creation of our wish list.

Keep that list handy as you proceed to detail your scope.  It should be as detailed in nature as possible from the start.   If you have hired an architect or designer, they can help you develop the level of detail beyond what you might be familiar with.

Breaking It Down

Breaking it down to manageable steps will help. Here is an example of what one might look like if you were doing a bathroom remodel.

• Removal and disposal of all existing plumbing and electrical fixtures.
• Demolition and disposal of all walls, ceiling and flooring.
• Run new hot and cold water lines.
• Run wiring for new recessed lighting.
• Install lines for new radiant heat at tile floor.
• Furnish and install insulation to exterior wall.
• Furnish and install new gypsum board and skim coat.
• Prep prime and paint new walls, ceiling and trim.
• Install new tile flooring. (Provided by owner)
• Furnish and install new custom millwork vanity and medicine cabinet.
• Furnish and install new plumbing fixtures.
• Install new electrical fixtures. (Provided by owner)
• Install new cabinet hardware. (Provided by owner)

As you can see, depending upon the extent and complexity of your project, the list can become very long.

It is easier if you create this list by room or area first and then compile and condense the information if you have a larger project. A simple spreadsheet or notepaper with columns works well for this exercise.

For example if you have several rooms being completely renovated, you may want the line in the contract to read as follows:

Demolition and disposal of all walls, ceiling and flooring at bathroom, kitchen and dining room.

This will allow the length of the scope to be condensed somewhat. Don't skimp here. This is one of the most important steps of the master plan. It is what drives the entire project from every aspect. It also will help protect all parties from financial liabilities.

Of course not everything is known right from the start. Situations arrive, site conditions reveal themselves and changes are inevitable. That being said, the more information provided from the start the less likely things are to be forgotten or mis-communicated.

Return from Scope to The Master Plan