Scope of Work for a Construction Project: What UK Homeowners Must Include
A clear scope of work for a construction project is one of the simplest ways to avoid disputes, delays and cost overruns. This guide explains what a UK homeowner should include, how to structure it, and how it protects you when dealing with builders, designers and building control.
We break down the essentials, provide a step-by-step checklist, and show you how a well-written scope keeps your project compliant and manageable from day one.
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What a Scope of Work Actually Does
A scope of work for a construction project sets out exactly what will be built, how it will be built, and the standard it must meet. When written well, it prevents the classic disputes: “I thought that was included,” or “We didn’t price for that.”
Most UK homeowners get into difficulty because the scope is either missing or too vague. Councils, contractors and building control work far more smoothly when expectations are clear from the start.
What to Include in a Scope of Work
Every scope should clearly explain:
- Project description – what the build involves (e.g., rear extension, kitchen reconfiguration, loft conversion).
- Detailed tasks – listed in order of work: demolition, drainage changes, new walls, structural steel, roofing, electrics, finishes.
- Materials and specifications – insulation thickness, U-values, window types, doors, roofing materials, heating and lighting systems.
- Responsibilities – who sources materials, arranges waste removal, books building control, and handles utilities.
- Inclusions + exclusions – what’s part of the contractor’s price and what isn’t.
- Compliance requirements – building regulations (Part A, B, L etc), planning approval conditions, structural engineer notes.
- Timeline expectations – phases, sequencing, access arrangements.
Scope of Works vs Schedule of Works
These two terms sound similar, but they have different roles:
Scope of Works
- Explains the overall project intent.
- Describes the tasks, responsibilities and standards.
- Helps builders price consistently.
Schedule of Works
- Breaks the job into itemised cost lines.
- Specifies quantities, measurements and pricing units.
- Often used for competitive tendering.
How to Write a Scope of Work (Step-by-Step)
This checklist gives you a simple structure to follow:
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1. Define the project | Summarise the goal (e.g., “single-storey rear extension”). |
| 2. List all work stages | Break into phases: preparation, structure, roofing, services, finishes. |
| 3. Describe materials | Specify insulation levels, window systems, brick type, roof covering. |
| 4. State responsibilities | Who sources materials? Who handles waste? Who arranges building control? |
| 5. Clarify inclusions/exclusions | Spell out exactly what is and isn’t in the price. |
| 6. Add compliance notes | Include planning conditions, building regs parts, engineer’s requirements. |
| 7. Add timeline expectations | Useful for managing deliveries, downtime and access. |
Not sure if your scope covers everything?
Our team can review your plans and tell you exactly what should be included before you get quotes.
Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
Other typical pitfalls include:
- Not stating who purchases key materials.
- Vague allowances such as “PC Sums” with no guidance.
- No reference to building regulations or planning conditions.
- Missing details on drainage, ventilation, insulation or electrics.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the scope of work for a construction project?
It’s the written document describing the tasks, standards, responsibilities and materials involved in your build. It ensures everyone understands exactly what is included.
2. What is a construction scope of works?
This is simply another term for the same document. In UK construction, “scope of works” is the common industry phrase.
3. What is scope of work in construction?
It outlines the full list of building activities and sets clear expectations for quality, materials and responsibilities.
4. How do you write a scope of work for construction?
Start with a project summary, list all stages of work, specify materials, clarify responsibilities, list inclusions/exclusions, and include any compliance requirements.
5. What should be included in a scope of work for a building project?
Tasks, materials, compliance notes, responsibilities, finishes, and any exclusions. The more detailed it is, the fewer surprises later.
6. Why is project scope important in construction?
It prevents misunderstandings, protects your budget, and ensures builders all price the same job. Clear documentation helps achieve smoother building control sign-off.
7. What is the difference between a scope of works and a schedule of works?
The scope describes what will be built. The schedule lists quantities and costs. They are often used together in UK tendering.
8. Is there an example or template for a scope of work for a construction project?
Yes — most templates follow the same structure: project summary, stages, materials, compliance, inclusions and exclusions. Plans Made Easy can help tailor one to your project.
Key Facts Snapshot
- Purpose Sets out exactly what the builder will do and the standards required.
- Essential for Extensions, loft conversions, refurbishments, structural changes.
- Avoids Assumptions, disputes, price changes and delays.
- Best paired with Architectural drawings, structural calculations, planning approval.
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Helpful links
Planning Portal
GOV.UK – Planning Permission
Next Steps & Useful Guides
- Planning Permission Drawings
- Building Regulations Guide
- Building Control Explained
- Structural Calculations
- Making Plans
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