Glossary of Commercial Construction Terms

This glossary explains key terms used in the commercial construction tendering process — especially as they relate to estimating and subcontractor engagement. All definitions reflect terminology commonly used in the UK and Australian markets.

A

Accepted Tender

A tender submission that has been selected by the main contractor or client as the winning quote. EstimateOne helps contractors track and respond to tender outcomes more effectively.

Alternative Tender

A non-conforming tender that offers an alternative methodology, product, or pricing structure. Common when subcontractors propose value engineering alternatives.

C

Company Profile

In EstimateOne, subcontractors can create a Company Profile to showcase their business, capabilities, and qualifications to main contractors. This helps win more work by standing out during the quote evaluation process.

Conforming Tender

A tender that meets all specified requirements outlined in the invitation to tender (ITT). Non-conforming tenders may still be considered, but at the discretion of the estimator or procurement team.

E

Enquiry

Also known as a trade package invitation, an enquiry is sent from a main contractor to subcontractors requesting pricing for a portion of the work. EstimateOne helps estimators manage and track enquiries in a central platform.

Estimator

A professional responsible for preparing cost estimates for construction projects. Estimators working for main contractors use EstimateOne to manage trade packages and coordinate subcontractor pricing.

P

Pre-construction

The phase before a project starts on site, typically involving design finalisation, planning approvals, and tendering. EstimateOne is used heavily during this phase to manage subcontractor outreach and pricing.

Procurement Schedule

A timeline that outlines when specific trades or materials need to be sourced and locked in. EstimateOne supports this by tracking enquiry progress across multiple packages.

Q

Quote Coverage

The number of valid subcontractor quotes received for a trade package. Good quote coverage gives estimators confidence in pricing and competitiveness. EstimateOne provides visibility into quote response rates.

S

Scope of Works

A detailed description of the work to be performed under a contract. Provided in tender documentation and referenced by subcontractors when preparing quotes.

Subcontractor

A company or individual contracted to perform specific trades or services on a project. Subcontractors use EstimateOne to receive invitations to tender, submit quotes, and promote their business through Company Profiles.

T

Tender

A formal offer to perform work at a specified price. EstimateOne supports the tendering process by helping estimators manage enquiries and quote responses from subcontractors.

Trade Package

A specific set of works (e.g., plumbing, electrical, concrete) bundled together and sent as an enquiry to subcontractors. EstimateOne helps estimators track each package’s quote responses.