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Estimating & Bidding

Alternates

In Plain English

Optional scope changes priced separately so the owner can adjust the project after seeing all bids.

Definition

Alternates are separate bid items that modify the base bid scope, either adding to or deducting from the base contract price. Owners use alternates to test pricing for optional scope changes while keeping the base bid consistent across all bidders. Both additive and deductive alternates are common in public bidding.

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