Understanding Requisition in Construction in the USA: A Comprehensive Guide

In the world of construction, the term requisition plays a critical role in managing materials, labor, and other resources required for the timely and efficient completion of a project. A requisition is a formal request for resources or services, typically directed to suppliers, contractors, or departments within an organization. Understanding the concept of requisitions in construction is crucial for anyone involved in construction management, from project managers to procurement officers.

This detailed article delves into the definition of requisition in construction, its various types, and the essential role it plays in the management of construction projects. It will also highlight the processes, benefits, and best practices for requisitions, ensuring you have a comprehensive understanding of how requisitions contribute to a successful construction project.

What is a Requisition in Construction?

A requisition in construction is a formal document or request that outlines the materials, equipment, labor, or services required for a particular project phase or task. Requisitions are essential in the construction industry because they help ensure that all necessary resources are available on time and in the correct quantity, thereby preventing delays and cost overruns.

Requisitions are typically used for requesting items that are necessary for construction, such as raw materials, tools, construction equipment, or even subcontractor services. These documents serve as a clear communication tool between different departments, including procurement, finance, and project management teams. The requisition process can occur at various stages of the construction project, depending on the specific needs of the project.

Types of Requisitions in Construction

Requisitions in construction are not one-size-fits-all. The construction industry uses several types of requisitions, each designed for specific purposes. The most common types include:

1. Material Requisition

A material requisition is a request for the materials required to complete specific tasks within the project. This requisition specifies the type, quantity, and quality of materials needed, along with any relevant specifications, such as manufacturer details or material grades. Material requisitions ensure that project teams have the right materials available when they are needed, thus avoiding project delays caused by insufficient supplies.

For example, a material requisition could request a certain amount of concrete, steel beams, or drywall for a particular stage of construction.

2. Equipment Requisition

An equipment requisition is used to request heavy machinery or tools required for construction activities. This may include cranes, bulldozers, concrete mixers, scaffolding, or specialized tools. Equipment requisitions help construction teams obtain the necessary equipment for specific tasks and ensure that machinery is available when needed for efficient operations.

Additionally, equipment requisitions may also be used for renting equipment or requesting maintenance services for machinery that requires repair or inspection during the course of the project.

3. Labor Requisition

A labor requisition is a request for additional workers or specialized labor required on-site. Construction projects often require skilled tradespeople, such as electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and mason workers, as well as general laborers. Labor requisitions ensure that a project has the human resources needed at various stages of construction, based on the project’s timeline and scope.

These requisitions are typically used by project managers to hire subcontractors or direct employees for specific tasks, ensuring that the correct personnel are available when the work needs to be done.

4. Subcontractor Requisition

A subcontractor requisition is used to request the services of an outside contractor specializing in a specific area of construction. For example, if the project requires specialized HVAC installation, a requisition may be made to a subcontractor specializing in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. Subcontractor requisitions often include details about the scope of work, timeline, and specific requirements for the subcontractor to fulfill the contract.

5. Service Requisition

A service requisition refers to the request for various services that are not directly related to the core construction tasks but are still essential to the overall operation. Examples include cleaning services, site security, waste removal, or temporary utilities. Service requisitions ensure that these non-material needs are addressed promptly, keeping the project running smoothly.

The Requisition Process in Construction

The requisition process in construction involves multiple steps to ensure that resources are requested, tracked, and acquired efficiently. The steps typically include:

1. Identifying Needs

The first step in the requisition process is to identify the specific needs for the project. This could be in the form of materials, equipment, labor, or services. A project manager or team member will review the project’s requirements and the work schedule to determine what resources are needed for the next phase of construction.

2. Creating the Requisition

Once the needs are identified, the next step is to create a formal requisition document. This document will typically include:

• Description of the requested items
• Quantity required
• Delivery timeline
• Specifications (for materials or equipment)
• Budget constraints
• Supplier or contractor details (if already identified)

In the case of a material requisition, this may also include product codes, quantities, and even preferred vendors. The requisition document serves as an official request that can be processed, approved, and acted upon.

3. Approval and Authorization

After the requisition is created, it must be approved by the appropriate personnel, such as a project manager, procurement officer, or department head. Approval ensures that the requested items align with the project’s budget and timeline. Depending on the complexity or cost of the request, multiple levels of approval may be necessary.

4. Issuance and Procurement

Once authorized, the requisition is sent to the relevant department, such as procurement or finance, for processing. In the case of a material requisition, this step typically involves purchasing the items from approved suppliers. For labor or subcontractor requisitions, the appropriate contractors or personnel are hired to complete the work.

5. Delivery and Tracking

Following procurement, the requested items or services are delivered to the construction site. It is crucial to track the delivery to ensure that all requisitioned materials, equipment, or services are received on time and in the required quantities. Proper documentation and record-keeping are essential to ensure accuracy and avoid disputes.

6. Finalization and Reporting

The final step of the requisition process involves confirming that all materials, services, or equipment have been received and are being utilized correctly on-site. This stage may include reconciliation of invoices, updating inventory records, and ensuring that the project budget has been adhered to. Regular reports help track spending, evaluate resource utilization, and ensure the project stays on track.

Benefits of Using Requisitions in Construction

The requisition process provides several benefits that contribute to the success of construction projects, including:

1. Improved Resource Management

Requisitions help ensure that resources are properly planned for and allocated. By clearly specifying what is needed and when, project managers can avoid shortages or overages of materials and labor. This leads to a more efficient and cost-effective project.

2. Better Budget Control

By managing requisitions effectively, construction teams can keep a close eye on project spending. Requisitions help ensure that purchases and services are within the allocated budget, preventing cost overruns.

3. Streamlined Communication

Requisitions foster clear communication between various teams, including procurement, finance, and construction managers. This ensures that everyone involved in the project is aligned and aware of the resources required.

4. Increased Accountability

With requisitions, there is a clear paper trail for all resource requests, helping to track expenses and resource usage. This increases accountability across departments, ensuring that items are obtained as needed and used appropriately.

Conclusion

In conclusion, requisition in construction is a vital part of the project management process. It ensures that materials, equipment, labor, and services are readily available at the right time, keeping the project on track, on budget, and within the required specifications. Understanding the different types of requisitions and the process involved is crucial for maintaining efficiency and achieving success in construction projects.

By implementing a structured requisition process, construction teams can significantly enhance project performance and minimize delays or budget discrepancies. A well-executed requisition system improves resource management, strengthens communication, and ensures accountability throughout the construction lifecycle.

For more information on the requisition process and best practices in construction, refer to this article: Requisition in Construction