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Trade Playbook

What a trade needs to perform, protect margin, and get paid.

Trades succeed when scope is clear, labor is planned, materials are released, submittals are approved, field conditions are ready, changes are documented, and billing is disciplined.

Estimate rightManpower rightMaterial rightDocument rightInstall rightGet paid

Estimate Discipline

  • Read drawings and specs together
  • Track addenda
  • Clarify inclusions and exclusions
  • Price labor realistically
  • Include freight, tax, equipment, layout, cleanup
  • Protect margin and overhead

Scope Protection

  • Define what is included
  • Define what is excluded
  • Call out assumptions
  • Identify by-others work
  • Confirm substrate and access
  • Document gaps before contract

Material Control

  • Vendor quotes locked
  • Lead times verified
  • Submittals approved
  • Release dates scheduled
  • Storage and delivery planned
  • Damage and shortage process ready

Labor Planning

  • Foreman assigned
  • Crew size tied to schedule
  • Production rates realistic
  • Overtime impact understood
  • Travel and parking considered
  • Backup manpower identified

Field Conditions

  • Access ready
  • Preceding trade complete
  • Layout confirmed
  • Safety requirements known
  • Inspection hold points clear
  • Photos before/after install

Payment Protection

  • Notice rules followed
  • Schedule of values clean
  • Progress billing timely
  • Change orders submitted fast
  • Retention tracked
  • Lien releases controlled
Trade NeedWhat usually goes wrongWhat success looks like
Bid inviteToo little time, unclear plans, missing addenda.Complete package, due date, scope sheet, contact, and RFI deadline.
ContractScope added after bid, bad payment terms, risky flow-down.Negotiated scope exhibit, fair payment terms, clear change order process.
SubmittalsLate approvals delay material.Submittal register with owner, approver, due date, and release date.
InstallArea not ready, access blocked, sequence wrong.Look-ahead schedule, readiness checklist, and daily communication.
ChangesField work done without signed direction.Written notice, photos, cost backup, signed change order path.
CloseoutFinal payment held for missing paperwork.Warranties, O&Ms, releases, punch, and photos collected early.

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