What can a CM's response to an RFP be considered as?

A construction manager's response to a Request for Proposals (RFP) is considered an offer to enter a contract. This is because the response outlines the terms under which the construction manager is willing to undertake the project, including scope, pricing, and timelines. By providing this detailed proposal, the construction manager indicates their intent to form a formal contract if the proposal is accepted by the client.

In the context of contract law, an offer is a clear statement of the willingness to enter into a binding agreement on specific terms. When the recipient of the proposal (the client or owner) accepts it, a contract emerges based on the terms laid out in the response. Therefore, this process is fundamental for establishing mutual consent and sets the groundwork for further negotiations or formalization of the agreement.

The other options do not accurately reflect the nature of the response. An informal inquiry suggests a lack of commitment, which is not the case as a response to an RFP is usually well-defined and structured. While it is aligned with the negotiation process, it is not a binding agreement until it is formally accepted by both parties. Lastly, it is certainly not a rejection of the proposal; rather, it is a proactive step taken by the construction manager to express interest and outline