What is a furniture installation scope of work

A furniture installation scope of work is the written plan that explains what gets installed, where it goes, who is responsible, and how the work will be sequenced. It removes guesswork on site, keeps building managers happy, and prevents change orders. If you manage an office in Los Angeles or Orange County, a clear scope turns a stressful install into a predictable weekend.

What should a furniture installation scope include

1. Project basics

• Building, suite, and floor numbers

• Live dates and work windows for dock and elevator access

• Certificate of insurance requirements and contact list for building security

2. Asset list

• Counts by type: workstations, private offices, conference tables, storage, task chairs, accessories

• Model numbers and finishes for each line item

• Items to reconfigure or store versus new installs

• Special handling notes for glass, height adjustable bases, or heavy files

3. Drawings and labeling

• Final floor plan with seat names or numbers

• Typical details for panel runs, power locations, and cable paths

• One simple label standard so cartons, panels, tops, and pedestals land at the correct station

4. Responsibilities

• Who receives, checks, and stages product

• Who provides power whips, data rough-ins, and low voltage terminations

• Who removes trash and who schedules elevator holds and lobby protection

5. Sequence of work

• Room by room or phase by phase order of operations

• Crew counts by day and the tools or lifts required

• Milestones for punch walks and sign off

6. Quality checks and closeout

• Tolerances for level and gap, fastener checks, drawer and lock function

• Photos of each area, serial capture when needed, and a punch list format

• Timing for debris removal, crate pickup, and warranty handoff

This is the kind of plan a professional installer prepares in one or two short working sessions. A coordinated team saves days of trial and error. If you want a free planning call or a scope template, you can book it on Vector Installation Services.

A simple sequence that works for LA and OC buildings

• Day 0 Receive and stage. Verify counts, protect lobbies, and reserve elevators

• Day 1 Set panel runs and power, assemble bases and storage, begin seating

• Day 2 Complete seating, hang overheads, align and level, test locks, remove debris

• Day 3 Punch walk with facilities and IT, complete small fixes, collect crates

Many large offices complete in about three working days with 8 to 15 certified installers when the scope is tight and product is ready. Smaller suites finish faster. Your exact timeline depends on elevator windows, product mix, and building rules.

Common scope gaps that cause delays

• Two different label systems used at the same time

• No clear plan for cable management or power whips

• Missing fasteners or incorrect brackets not flagged before delivery

• No dock appointment or incomplete certificate of insurance

• Punch walk not scheduled before keys are returned

Helpful standards and references

For dimensions, clearances, and stability guidance used by many office furniture manufacturers, review the industry standards published by BIFMA.

FAQ

What is a furniture installation scope of work in plain terms

It is the written guide that tells the crew exactly what to build, where to place it, and in what order, with drawings, counts, responsibilities, and quality checks.

Who should write the scope

Facilities or operations usually owns it. Your dealer and the installation partner refine it together and align it with building and IT rules.

Do I need a scope for a small suite

Yes. Even a ten seat install benefits from a one page scope. It prevents mislabels, protects lobbies, and avoids elevator conflicts.