Planning a Flip? Here’s How I Break Down the Scope of Work (SOW)

[Carlos Gonzalez]

One of the most overlooked (but most critical) parts of a successful flip is your Scope of Work (SOW). Without a clear, detailed SOW, you're opening the door to budget overruns, timeline delays, and contractor confusion.

Here’s My Process for Creating a Solid SOW:

1. Walk the Property Thoroughly I bring a checklist and walk the property with my contractor and project manager. We document EVERYTHING—from roofing and HVAC to paint colors and outlet covers.
2. Categorize by Trade I break down the work into categories: demo, framing, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, drywall, paint, flooring, etc. This makes it easier to get accurate bids and track progress.
3. Get Contractor Input Early Good contractors will spot things I might miss. Collaborating up front helps avoid scope creep and surprises mid-project.
4. Be Extremely Specific Instead of saying "replace flooring," I specify "install 1,200 sq ft of LVP flooring, color: gray oak, brand: XYZ."
5. Attach Photos & Design References Visuals eliminate miscommunication. I include sample photos, measurements, and layout diagrams whenever possible.
6. Include a Timeline and Payment Schedule Each phase of work is tied to a milestone and a draw. Keeps everyone accountable and aligned.

Pro Tip:

Use your SOW as a living document. Adjust as needed, but always communicate changes in writing and update your records accordingly.

How do you structure your Scope of Work? Have you found any tools or templates that help? Let’s share tips to make planning flips easier for everyone.

[Bruce Woodruff]

Great topic! And so important.....it's amazing to me how many people start a project with no SOW (or a poorly defined one)...... It is critical to the succes of a remodel or flip. Not only to set your budget more precisely, but also to avoid misunderstanding and Contractor/Client squabbles that seem to show up halfway through the project almost every time.

I like to include pictures when possible, just to really make sure. Misunderstandings and confusion lead to delays and budget overruns.