Why are my contractor estimates so far apart?
Getting one quote for $9,500 and another for $15,000 on the same job is common, and it rarely means one contractor is simply greedy. Usually the bids describe different jobs. Here is how to find out which parts differ before you pay a deposit.
1. The scope is not the same
One bid may include tear-out, disposal, permits and repairs that another leaves out or lists as 'by owner'. Put each bid's line items side by side and mark what each one includes, excludes, or never mentions.
2. Materials are named differently, or not at all
'Architectural shingles', 'standard fixtures' or 'premium flooring' can mean very different products. Ask every contractor for brand, product line and quantity so you compare like with like.
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3. Allowances hide real costs
A low allowance for fixtures, tile or decking replacement makes a bid look cheaper, then grows once work starts. Compare the allowance amounts, not just the total.
4. Labor, crew and timing differ
- Licensed and insured crew vs. subcontracted labor
- Workers' compensation and liability coverage
- Start date, project length and how busy the contractor is
- Warranty length on workmanship, in writing
5. How to compare them fairly
ProjectProof's multi-bid comparison does this for up to three estimates: a side-by-side scope matrix, what could explain the price difference, and one message you can send to any of them.
- List every line item from every bid in one table
- Ask each contractor to price the items they left out
- Check each total against the typical range for your state
- Send the same written questions to all of them
Frequently asked
- Should I just pick the middle bid?
- Not automatically. The middle bid can still be missing scope. Match the line items first, then compare prices.
- Is it normal for bids to differ by 30% or more?
- Large gaps are common on remodeling and roofing jobs, usually because of scope, materials and allowances. Ask each contractor to explain the items behind their number.