Bid Leveling
The process of comparing multiple bids or subcontractor quotes on an apples-to-apples basis, adjusting for differences in scope, exclusions, and assumptions, so the numbers can actually be compared fairly instead of just compared as raw totals.
Why it matters
Two subcontractor quotes for "electrical" can differ by tens of thousands of dollars for reasons that have nothing to do with efficiency: one might exclude permits, another might exclude material delivery. Without leveling, the lowest number can just be the most incomplete one.
On a real project
An estimator receives three drywall quotes. One excludes fire-taping, another excludes material delivery, and the third includes both. Before comparing totals, the estimator adds the missing scope's estimated cost back into the two incomplete quotes so all three numbers reflect the same actual work.
Who this matters most to
An Estimator does the hands-on work of leveling subcontractor quotes before buyout, since picking the wrong number without leveling can quietly bake a scope gap into the contract. A Senior Estimator reviews the leveled comparison before a final subcontractor is selected, especially on large trade packages.
Where this goes wrong
An estimator picks the lowest of three framing quotes without leveling them first, missing that the low bidder excluded temporary shoring the other two included. The framing subcontractor later submits a change order for the shoring once it turns out to be required, and the "savings" from picking the low number disappears, plus a delay while the shoring gets sourced.