A bid tab shows one concrete quote $18,000 lower than all others because it excludes vapor barrier and reinforcing placement. What is the best estimating response?
Correct Answer
B) Normalize the scope before comparing the quote to other bids.
Quotes should be compared on equivalent scope; exclusions must be normalized before selecting a number.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Quotes should be compared on equivalent scope; exclusions must be normalized before selecting a number.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Use the low number immediately because bid day is short.
Use the low number immediately because bid day is short. skips the written authority, scope, price, notice, or release control needed for cost control and bid leveling.
Option C: Warranty card packet.
Warranty card packet. skips the written authority, scope, price, notice, or release control needed for cost control and bid leveling.
Option D: Assign omitted concrete scope to the owner without disclosure.
Assign omitted concrete scope to the owner without disclosure. skips the written authority, scope, price, notice, or release control needed for cost control and bid leveling.
Memory Technique
When quotes clashes with compared, let the contract speak before Building Estimate.
Reference Hint
Study anchor (closed-book): memorize Cost control and bid leveling from CSLB 2026 Law Book; California contracting practice / CSLB Law Book bidding and contract administration; know the rule or calculation trigger without relying on exam-room lookup.
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