Core terms · definition
A budgeted dollar figure placeholder in the contract for an item not yet selected (e.g., tile, fixtures). If your final selection costs more than the allowance, you pay the difference — scrutinize low allowances in bids.
Source: NAHB — National Association of Home Builders
Where this comes up
Where this term lands on a Columbus budget
The cost pages carry the current local ranges, and the guides explain what moves them. A published range becomes a project number only after someone looks at the site.