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General Contractor Scope of Work Template
A scope of work template built for contractors, home builders, and remodelers
Easily customize and reuse this template for each new project with simple client, project, deliverables, and payment input sheets. Save, print, or email a finalized scope of work document that is automatically generated and formatted and ready to share for approvals.
This scope of work template has been created by Housecall Pro with everything you need to reduce the time it takes to create, manage and share a scope of work for your construction projects … and it’s completely free!
This template has everything you need and is provided free of charge, and can be used without restrictions in Excel or Google Sheets.
Here’s everything included with this template
- Step-by-step instructions that will guide you through each phase of the SOW
- Simple customization to add your company logo and personalize for your brand
- Predefined inputs for project, deliverable, and payment details
- Built-in formulas that save you time populating fields and calculating totals
- Auto-generated scope of work document that is pre-formatted and ready to save, print, and share
Create and share a scope of work in just minutes
1. Add project details
Use the input screens to include your company, client, project, and payment details.
2. Add deliverables
Complete your list of deliverables, descriptions, quantities, and costs for each line item.
3. Share your SOW
Save, print, download, or share your auto-generated scope of work document.
What is a scope of work?
A scope of work is a formal statement in construction projects, either written or in the form of a document that outlines:
General project details (date, who’s responsible, client, address, etc.)
- Project scope/description
- Deliverables
- Timeline/timeframe
- Financials/payment details
- Signatures/approvals
As it relates to homebuilders and remodelers, a scope of work can be included as a portion of contract documents that describe the work to be done on a construction project.
It clearly states the expectations of the contractor (and client). Any changes to the scope of work are done in writing and may cause a change to the scope of work.
Scope of Work example
A scope of work can be created and formatted in many different ways. And, depending on the project, these documents can either be very short (for small residential construction projects) or several pages long (for large residential or commercial construction projects).
Using our free scope of work template (link to download is above) will give you an example to start from and it comes with each of the most critical components so you’ll never forget to include them in any project.
Why is a Scope of Work important?
There are many reasons why a scope of work is important for a project. For starters, it helps to establish clear expectations between a contractor and a client. What’s included in the scope of work can also help to keep the project on track and within budget.
The purpose of having a scope of work is to make sure that everyone understands what needs to be done, who is responsible for getting it done, and in what order it’s getting done.
In residential construction, the scope of work usually includes a detailed description of the job, including start and finish dates, a list of materials that will be used, and who will be performing the work.
How do you write a Scope of Work?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the scope of work for a construction project will vary depending on the nature and size of the project. However, there are some key components that should be included in any scope of work for a residential construction project.
First, you’ll need to clearly outline the work that needs to be done. This includes specifying any demolition or site preparation that may be required, as well as detailing the actual construction work to be performed. You’ll also need to indicate who is responsible for each task – this is typically the contractor, but could also include subcontractors or other members of the construction team. Finally, you should include a timeline for the completion of the work.
Writing your scope of work is much easier when you have an example to work from. Download our free scope of work template (linked above) to give yourself a head start and save a ton of time.
Who prepares a Scope of Work document?
In residential construction, the scope of work is generally prepared by the general contractor, project manager, or designer, and it is shared with all parties involved in the project before work begins.
Construction Scope of Work Template FAQs
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What formats does the scope of work template support?
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The template is fully compatible with both Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets. Once you’ve filled in your project details and deliverables, the template automatically generates a formatted scope of work document that is ready to save, print, download, or share for client approval.
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What is the difference between a scope of work and a contract?
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A scope of work describes in detail what work will be done, by whom, when, and for how much. A contract is the legally binding agreement between the contractor and client that governs the entire project relationship — it typically includes the scope of work as an attachment or section, along with legal terms, liability clauses, warranties, and dispute resolution procedures. The scope of work defines the job; the contract enforces it.
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When should a scope of work be created?
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A scope of work should be created before any work begins — ideally during the pre-construction or proposal phase. It should be reviewed and approved by both the contractor and the client before a contract is signed and before any materials are ordered or workers are mobilized. Creating the scope of work early sets clear expectations from the start and reduces the risk of disputes later in the project.
