Scope of works

The scope of works is the contractual description of exactly what you are being paid to do - and in a dispute, the scope documents decide whether contested work is a variation (more money) or your obligation (your cost).

Scope risk hides in the inclusions list, sweep-up wording ("all works necessary for completion whether or not shown"), the order of precedence between documents, and design responsibility creeping in through "fit for purpose" or co-ordination obligations.

Why it matters to subbies

Every dollar of scope ambiguity is a future argument you have pre-paid for. Exclusions in your quote, expressly incorporated into the contract, are the cheapest dispute-avoidance available.

General information for Australian subcontractors, not legal advice - contract drafting and state legislation vary and change; your document and your state's Act govern. Written by Mat Kennedy at The Construction Contracts Co.