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Request for Information (RFI)
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Request for Quote (RFQ)

Request for Proposal (RFP)

An RFP solicits detailed proposals including approach, qualifications, schedule, and price. Common on design-build and complex commercial work.

Quick definition

Request for Proposal (RFP) means An RFP solicits detailed proposals including approach, qualifications, schedule, and price. Common on design-build and complex commercial work.

What is a request for proposal?

A request for proposal (RFP) asks contractors or vendors to submit a full proposal: technical approach, team qualifications, schedule, and price. RFPs are common when scope, design, or delivery method is still evolving.

Owners use RFPs when they need more than a number from a request for quote.

RFP vs RFQ

DocumentEmphasisWhen to use
RFPSolution and qualificationsComplex or design-led projects
RFQPrice on defined scopeSpecified trade buyout

Respond to an RFP with narrative and numbers. Respond to an RFQ mostly with numbers tied to clear scope.

Typical RFP sections

Issuers often require:

  • Executive summary and project understanding
  • Approach, phasing, and risk plan
  • Key personnel and relevant project list
  • Schedule and milestones
  • Price or estimate format (lump sum, GMP, or unit prices)
  • Insurance, bonding, and safety programs

Follow the RFP format exactly. Non-compliant proposals get tossed before anyone reads your price.

Scoring and shortlists

Many RFPs use weighted scoring:

  • Technical merit
  • Experience
  • Schedule
  • Price

Price is rarely the only factor. Weak qualifications cannot be saved by being cheapest.

On the job

Answer every question in order. Reviewers score checklists.

Show similar completed work. Photos and references beat adjectives.

Call out exclusions clearly. Surprises after award kill margin.

Submit on time. Late proposals are usually rejected outright.

RFPs sell your firm, not just your rate. Treat them like a job interview with a spreadsheet attached.

Related glossary terms

SubcontractorA subcontractor is a specialized contractor hired by a general contractor to perform specific portions of a construction project.Prime ContractorThe prime contractor holds the main contract with the project owner. They coordinate subs, permits, billing, and overall job delivery.Request for Information (RFI)An RFI is a formal question during construction to clarify drawings, specs, or scope. RFIs create a paper trail for changes and delays.Punch ListA final checklist of incomplete or defective work items that need to be addressed before a construction project can be considered complete.

Related resources and tools

Stay organized as a contractorJob folders, photos, and follow-ups that scale.Estimate and invoice appKeep subs, change orders, and billing in one place.Best apps for small construction businessesBuild a simple stack for quotes, jobs, and cash flow.Punch list generatorCreate a closeout checklist with owners and status.Work order generatorGive the crew a clear job sheet PDF.Site visit checklist generatorBuild a walkthrough checklist for estimates.

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Request for Proposal (RFP) | Contractor Terms Glossary | Dave