What is a scope of works?

A scope of works describes the work to be done, the materials or standard expected, responsibilities and exclusions so that a project can be understood consistently.

Does a scope of works replace a contract?

No. It can form an important part of project documents, but it does not replace an appropriate contract or professional advice.

Why should I include exclusions?

Clear exclusions make it easier to identify assumptions and reduce the chance that different parties price different versions of the work.

Copy-and-use project brief

Free scope of works template (UK)

Use this before you request quotes: a good scope names the work, the finish, responsibilities and exclusions in one place, so the people pricing it are responding to the same brief.

Copy the outline below into your own document and replace the prompts. It is a starting point, not legal, technical or contractual advice.

Use the template

What to include

Describe the outcome

Say what the finished space should do, then list the physical work that gets it there.

Set the standard

Record drawings, specifications, products, dimensions and workmanship expectations where known.

Make boundaries visible

State who supplies items, obtains approvals, protects the site and disposes of waste.

Template

Scope of works — [project name]

1. Project details

Address: [insert address]
Client: [insert name]
Issue date and version: [insert]

2. Intended outcome

Describe the completed space and the reason for the work in plain language.

3. Work included

Preliminaries and site protection: [insert]
Demolition, structure and building fabric: [insert]
Electrical, plumbing, heating and ventilation: [insert]
Finishes, fittings, testing and handover: [insert]

4. Information and standard

List drawings, agreed specifications, relevant approvals, access hours and any named products or acceptable alternatives.

5. Responsibilities and exclusions

State what the client supplies, what the contractor supplies, and the items expressly not included.

6. Assumptions and changes

Record assumptions and require changes to be agreed in writing before extra work proceeds.

Frequently asked questions

How detailed should a scope of works be?

Detailed enough that another person can understand what is included, what standard is expected and what is not included. Add drawings and schedules where they are available.

Can I use this for a small refurbishment?

Yes. Keep the headings, but make the content proportionate to the work. Small projects still benefit from a clear list of inclusions and exclusions.

Should I ask every contractor to price the same scope?

Yes. Give the same current version to each party and log any assumptions they make in response.

Turn the brief into a project you can discuss

Start from your address and use a concept to make the scope more tangible before you commit to a route.

Explore my address