What foundational document is created at the beginning of a construction project?

The foundational document created at the beginning of a construction project is primarily the estimate. This document outlines the projected costs associated with the project, including materials, labor, overhead, and any other expenses. An accurate estimate is crucial for budgeting and securing financing, as it sets the financial parameters for the entire project. It also helps in the decision-making process, allowing stakeholders to assess the viability of the project based on its expected costs.

Other documents, while important, serve different purposes and typically come into play after the initial financial framework is established. The bill of quantities, for instance, provides a detailed list of materials and their quantities needed for the project, which is often derived from the estimate. The work order is a document that authorizes work to commence, but it usually follows the initial planning process, including the estimating phase. The site plan, which details the physical layout of the project, is essential for construction logistics but is based on the project's scope defined by the estimate.