The short answer
A complete scope names the building, every elevation and its access method, what is and is not included, how often, the safety and anchor documentation required, insurance, who does the work and how pricing is broken out. If a bid can be priced two different ways, the scope is not done.
1. Building and elevations
- Height in stories, and the number of elevations
- Facade type on each elevation: curtain wall, punched windows or mixed
- Atriums, skylights, setbacks and canopies
2. Glass count and sides
- Approximate number of panes per elevation
- Exterior only, or inside and out
- Common areas vs. tenant suites for interior glass
3. Access method per elevation
Pole, lift, rope descent or swing stage. Naming it forces every bidder to price the same job. See rope descent vs. suspended scaffolding.
4. Inclusions and add-ons
- Standard: glass, frames and sills.
- Named add-ons, priced separately: screens, tracks, hard-water removal, first-time and post-construction cleans.
5. Frequency and schedule
- Visits per year for the facade
- A separate cadence for entrances, lobbies and ground-floor glass
- Seasonal windows, weather days and how rescheduling works
6. Safety plan
A site-specific safety plan for any at-height work, with certified technicians and inspected equipment.
7. Anchor documentation
Under OSHA 29 CFR 1910.27, before any rope descent system is used, the building owner must confirm in writing that each anchorage has been identified, tested, certified and maintained to support at least 5,000 pounds in any direction for each worker attached, based on an annual inspection and certification at least every 10 years.
Say who provides it and when. See the roof anchor and fall protection compliance guide.
8. Insurance
General liability and workers comp, with a certificate of insurance naming the property, delivered before work starts.
9. Workforce
Whether the crews are the vendor's W2 employees or subcontractors. It decides who is trained, who is covered and who is accountable.
10. Tenant and site coordination
- Tenant notice: who sends it and how far ahead
- Roof access, suite access and security escorts
- Ground-level safety zones, entrances and any sidewalk closures
11. Pricing format
Per visit, broken out by building and elevation, with add-ons as line items. That lets you compare bids line by line instead of on the total.
Skip the blank page
The commercial window cleaning RFP template turns this list into a ready-to-send request for proposal. Or send us the building and we will scope it with you: S&K walks the property, sets the access plan and delivers a clear, fixed proposal.
