What should be included in a scope of work?
In construction, ‘scope of work’ is a very general, and sometimes ambiguous, term referring to a general description of the work that is required from a party under a particular contract. It is typically prepared by a client or their consultants and included in tender documentation and then in the contract documentation.
The term ‘scope of work’ is generally used to refer to construction activities, whilst a ‘scope of services’ describes the services a consultant performs (although this may also sometimes be referred to as a scope of work).
The nature of the scope of work can vary significantly from project to project. It may simply offer a very broad description of the works required, or it may provide a complete description of the project.
Very broadly, a scope of work might include:
- A brief overview of the project (what it is, why it is needed, etc.).
- Roles and responsibilities.
- A description of the deliverables required.
- A description of specific tasks.
- Technical considerations.
- A summary of the project schedule (expected duration, milestones, delivery dates, time limits, etc.).
- A description of how the project will be managed (issuing of payments, change controls, legal requirements, phasing, etc.).
- Reporting requirements.
- Specific exclusions.
- Works that would constitute additions to the scope.
However detailed the scope of work, it is important that it is written in a clear and unambiguous way to avoid misinterpretation and potential disputes further down the line. It should not duplicate information set out elsewhere in the contract documentation (such as specifications or drawings) as this can create confusing discrepancies.
NB: A 'schedule of work' generally refers to a without quantities instructional list produced on smaller projects or for alteration work as an alternative to bills of quantities. However, the terms schedule of work and scope of work are sometimes used interchangeably.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.
Delayed, derailed and devalued
How the UK’s planning crisis is undermining British manufacturing.
How much does it cost to build a house?
A brief run down of key considerations from a London based practice.
The need for a National construction careers campaign
Highlighted by CIOB to cut unemployment, reduce skills gap and deliver on housing and infrastructure ambitions.
AI-Driven automation; reducing time, enhancing compliance
Sustainability; not just compliance but rethinking design, material selection, and the supply chains to support them.
Climate Resilience and Adaptation In the Built Environment
New CIOB Technical Information Sheet by Colin Booth, Professor of Smart and Sustainable Infrastructure.
Turning Enquiries into Profitable Construction Projects
Founder of Develop Coaching and author of Building Your Future; Greg Wilkes shares his insights.
IHBC Signpost: Poetry from concrete
Scotland’s fascinating historic concrete and brutalist architecture with the Engine Shed.
Demonstrating that apprenticeships work for business, people and Scotland’s economy.
Scottish parents prioritise construction and apprenticeships
CIOB data released for Scottish Apprenticeship Week shows construction as top potential career path.
From a Green to a White Paper and the proposal of a General Safety Requirement for construction products.
Creativity, conservation and craft at Barley Studio. Book review.
The challenge as PFI agreements come to an end
How construction deals with inherited assets built under long-term contracts.
Skills plan for engineering and building services
Comprehensive industry report highlights persistent skills challenges across the sector.
Choosing the right design team for a D&B Contract
An architect explains the nature and needs of working within this common procurement route.
Statement from the Interim Chief Construction Advisor
Thouria Istephan; Architect and inquiry panel member outlines ongoing work, priorities and next steps.