How to Create a Scope of Work.
Whether you’re planning a home renovation, a new build, or a commercial project, one document can make or break the entire job: the Scope of Work (often called an SOW). A clear, well-written scope of work keeps everyone on the same page, protects your budget, and helps avoid disputes before they ever happen.
This guide breaks down what a scope of work is, what needs to be included, how to create one step by step, and where to get help if you’re unsure.
What Is a Scope of Work?
A Scope of Work is a detailed written description of exactly what work will be performed on a project. It defines:
What is included
What is not included
How the work will be done
Who is responsible for what
Think of it as the rulebook for the project. If it’s not written in the scope, it’s not guaranteed.
Why a Scope of Work Is So Important
A strong scope of work helps you:
Prevent surprise costs and change orders
Compare contractor bids accurately
Set clear expectations for quality and materials
Reduce delays, confusion, and disputes
Protect both the owner and contractor legally
Most project problems don’t start in the field. They start with a vague scope.
What Should Be Included in a Scope of Work?
A good scope of work should be clear, detailed, and specific. Here are the key sections to include:
1. Project Overview
A brief summary of the project:
Project location
Type of work (renovation, addition, new build, etc.)
Overall goal of the project
2. Detailed Description of Work
This is the most important part. Break the work down by trade or phase, such as:
Demolition
Site work
Framing
Electrical
Plumbing
HVAC
Drywall
Finishes
Be specific about what is being done and where.
3. Materials and Products
List known materials and specifications:
Brand names (if required)
Sizes, thicknesses, and finishes
Allowances (if exact selections aren’t made yet)
The more specific you are, the fewer pricing surprises you’ll have.
4. Exclusions
Clearly state what is not included.
Examples:
Permits
Design changes
Landscaping
Utility upgrades
This section alone can prevent major disagreements later.
5. Timeline or Phasing (Optional but Helpful)
Even a rough sequence helps:
Start and completion expectations
Key milestones
Dependencies on other trades
6. Responsibilities
Clarify who is responsible for:
Permits
Inspections
Cleanup
Warranty items
How to Figure Out What Needs to Be in Your Scope
If you’re unsure what to include, use these strategies:
Walk the Project Step by Step
Mentally (or physically) walk through the job from start to finish and ask:
What has to happen first?
What happens next?
What trades are involved?
If a step exists, it should be written down.
Think in Trades, Not Just Tasks
Instead of “renovate kitchen,” break it into:
Demo
Framing changes
Electrical rough-in
Plumbing rough-in
Cabinets
Countertops
Flooring
Each trade equals clearer pricing.
Look at Past Projects
If you’ve done similar work before, review:
Old contracts
Invoices
Change orders
Anything that caused confusion before should be clearly defined now.
How to Create a Scope of Work (Step by Step)
Start broad – Write the overall project goal
Break it down – Divide the work by phase or trade
Add detail – Include materials, locations, and quantities
Clarify exclusions – Write what is not included
Review it – Ask, “Could this be misinterpreted?”
Refine it – Add clarity wherever assumptions exist
If someone else could read it and clearly understand the job, you’re on the right track.
Where to Get Help Creating a Scope of Work
If writing a scope feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. Here are common places to get help:
General contractors – Especially during pre-construction planning
Architects or designers – Great for detailed and technical scopes
Construction managers – Helpful for larger or multi-trade projects
Industry templates – Useful as a starting point (but should always be customized)
Experienced subcontractors – They know what details are often missed
Getting help upfront is far cheaper than fixing mistakes later.
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.” — Ecclesiastes 4:9