How do bid documents differ from contract documents?

Bid documents serve a specific purpose during the bidding process, primarily focused on soliciting proposals from contractors or suppliers. These documents outline the project requirements, specifications, and the conditions under which bids are to be submitted. They are critical for ensuring that potential bidders understand the scope of work and can provide accurate pricing and proposals based on the same information.

In contrast, contract documents come into play once a contractor is selected. They formalize the agreement between the owner and the contractor, detailing the obligations, rights, and responsibilities of each party for the duration of the project. They typically include items like the construction contract, drawings, specifications, and conditions of the contract.

Understanding this distinction is crucial in the construction process, as bid documents essentially kick off the procurement phase, while contract documents are foundational for project execution and management after the bids are evaluated and a contractor is selected.