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Communication in Bids

Summary

This article explains how messaging and document exchange works within a bid on BuilderPal. Whether you’re preparing your quote, negotiating terms, or finalizing details after being awarded, all bid-related communication is handled inside the Bid Conversation thread.

What is the Bid Conversation?

The Bid Conversation is a private chat between you and the general contractor (GC) that’s tied to a specific trade and job posting. It’s the central place to:

  • Ask questions about scope, schedule, or site conditions
  • Share supporting documents (insurance, drawings, certifications)
  • Receive updates about your bid status
  • Accept or decline award notifications

How Communication Works

When you can send messages

You can use the Bid Conversation at any stage of the bidding process:

  • Before you submit your quote
  • After you submit your quote
  • After you are awarded (until you accept/decline)

How you are notified

  • Messages appear in the Inbox, grouped by bid conversation.
  • If you have the BuilderPal app open, you’ll receive push notifications for new messages.
  • If you don’t yet have an account, you’ll receive an email invitation containing a signup link and invite code.

Who can see your messages

Only your team and the GC’s team see the conversation. Specifically, your message thread is visible to:

  • Your team’s Admins
  • Team Project Managers
  • Team Business Managers
  • Team Finance Managers

No other subcontractors or external parties have access.

Documents & Files

You can upload and receive documents directly in the thread, including:

  • Insurance certificates
  • WCB or trade certifications
  • Drawings or scope documents
  • Revised quotes or attachments

All files exchanged remain inside the conversation for easy access and record-keeping.

Important Things to Know

  • Messages cannot be edited or deleted once sent.
  • Awarding your bid does not automatically close the conversation—communication remains open as long as the job is live.
  • Any changes or follow-up after bid submission should go through the conversation, not via separate email chains.
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