Every time I have opened up the specification to the dreaded alternates section and have seen it go on for page after page I always get a sickening pit in my stomach! If an estimator has a choice between two similar projects to bid and one has an abundance of alternates, the estimator will choose the one with fewer alternates.
The Architect/Engineer/Owner needs to do their homework prior to releasing the documents. This includes designing a project within the Owner’s budget. Not only are alternates a pain for estimators, but they can actually increase the cost of the project.
In order to receive the best responses and prices from the contractors, it is important to keep alternates to a bare minimum.
