Short answer: an accurate ductwork quotation depends on current drawings, a clear specification, programme dates, site access and delivery constraints, and confirmation of whether the package is labour-only or supply-and-install.
Drawings show what is intended, but they do not always show how the package will be installed on that site. Identical duct routes can require different labour and sequencing when riser access, working hours, delivery routes or other trades change.
A practical RFQ checklist
- Current drawings and revisionsInclude layout drawings, sections, details and relevant schedules. Identify the revision status so the pricing basis is clear.
- Project specificationProvide the sections that relate to ventilation, ductwork, supports, terminals and any stated installation requirements.
- Scope of worksSet out the package boundary, known inclusions and exclusions, and the responsibilities of adjacent trades.
- Project location and building environmentLocation, occupancy and working restrictions help establish logistics and whether the opportunity is suitable.
- Programme and zone availabilityShare anticipated start dates, duration, phasing and when each installation area is expected to be genuinely available.
- Tender deadlineState when the quotation is required and who should receive questions about the package.
- Site and access notesInclude working hours, storage restrictions, loading arrangements, lifting requirements and areas that may be released in phases.
- Commercial basisState whether the enquiry is labour-only, supply-and-install or another defined arrangement so quotations are compared on the same basis.
Why drawings alone are not enough
Two contractors can read the same drawing and make different assumptions about supports, openings, insulation, controls interfaces, access equipment or handover information. Those assumptions affect the price and make comparisons harder.
A short written scope does not need to resolve every technical point at enquiry stage. It should identify the pricing basis and flag the areas that need confirmation before award or mobilisation.
Make quotation comparisons clearer
Use the same information pack for every contractor and record any clarification issued during the tender period. Ask each tenderer to state exclusions and material assumptions. This can help the commercial team compare the proposed packages on a more consistent basis.
Where information is incomplete, say so. A clearly identified provisional item or open responsibility is more useful than allowing different assumptions to remain hidden.
What Cliventa reviews
Cliventa reviews suitable ventilation and ductwork opportunities against the drawings, specification, defined scope, location, programme, access constraints and available site information. Delivery, coordination, testing and handover requirements remain subject to the package agreed for that project.
For more detail on service fit, see our ductwork installation and ventilation installation pages.