Pre-tender stage in project delivery: Which activities are normally completed before inviting tenders for a construction project?

Introduction / Context:
The pre-tender stage ensures that the employer is ready to seek competitive bids. Completing technical, legal, and financial groundwork reduces tender ambiguity and claims during execution.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Public or private construction project following standard procurement steps.
• Design is sufficiently developed for accurate quantities and specifications.
• Clear title and access to the site are ensured.

Concept / Approach:
Before tendering, the client should secure land, finalize site and alignment, complete designs to the required level (tender drawings/specs), and prepare a detailed estimate and bid documents. This enables fair pricing and mitigates change orders.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Confirm land acquisition or right-of-way so the contractor can mobilize.Freeze site selection and alignment to avoid design rework.Prepare drawings, technical specifications, BoQ, and cost estimate.Compile tender conditions and invite bids.

Verification / Alternative check:
Procurement guidelines (public works manuals) list these items as prerequisites for tendering to ensure a level playing field and predictable timelines.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Each individual item is necessary; picking any single one would be incomplete. Hence 'all the above' best represents standard practice.

Common Pitfalls:
Tendering with incomplete land acquisition or preliminary designs leads to scope creep, delays, and claims.

Final Answer:
all the above.