You may have heard the term “bid bond” if you’re a contractor. But what is it, and who needs it? A bid bond is a surety that guarantees that the bidder on a contract will enter into the contract if they are awarded the project. It’s important for contractors to understand bid bonds, as not having one can result in lost jobs and financial damages.
This article will break down everything to understand bid bond meaning in detail.
What are Bid Bonds?
Bid bonds are surety bonds issued by an insurance company or a bank to guarantee that the contractor will enter into a contract at a price set in their bid. Bid bonds are used for construction jobs or projects with similar bid-based selection processes.
The motive of the bid bond is to protect the owner if the contractor does not honour their bid.
If the contractor does not honour their bid, the owner can claim against the bond and be compensated for any damages up to the bond’s total value.
Who Need Bid Bonds?
Here are a few instances and people that may need a bid bond:
#1. General Contractor
If you are a general contractor, the chances are that you will need to get a bid bond at some point in your career. General contractors usually need to get them when bidding on government projects.
The bid bond protects the project owner from paying more money if the contractor does not finish the job or backs out of the deal.
It also protects them from paying if the contractor does not meet the requirements outlined in the bid.
#2. Subcontractor
If you are a project subcontractor, the prime contractor may require you to have a bid bond.
The prime contractor wants to make sure that all of the subcontractors they are working with are qualified and will be able to complete the work they are contracted for. If you do not have a bid bond and the prime contractor requires one, you will not be able to work on the project.
You may also be required to have this bond if you are bidding on a government contract. They include projects like building a highway or constructing a school.
As a subcontractor or contractor bidding on a government project, you will need to have a bid bond to be considered for the job.
#3. Supplier
The construction industry is one of the leading industries that use bid bonds. In 2018, the construction sector spending worldwide amounted to 11.5 trillion dollars.
It is a significant portion of the world economy, and it is expected to grow. If you are a supplier for construction materials, there is a chance you will be asked to provide a bid bond.
As a supplier, you will be competing against other suppliers for construction contracts. The bond is a way for the contracting company to ensure that you are serious about the bid and that you will follow through if you are awarded the contract.
It is also a way for the contracting company to recoup any losses if you do not follow your bid.
#4. If You Own a Construction Company
You’re bidding on a construction project, and the owner requires a bid bond. You would be the principal, and your construction company would be the obligee in this case. The surety company would back your bid and guarantee that you will enter into a contract with the owner and perform the work if you’re the successful bidder.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a business owner looking to take on a new project or a contractor bidding on a job, it’s essential to understand the bid bond meaning in the construction process.
