Print this, or fill it in on screen. Nothing here is submitted anywhere — it is a worksheet, not a form.
1 · Before you let anyone quote
Written scope of work prepared, identical for every bidder
Three quotes for three different jobs cannot be compared.
Decided which materials and finishes you actually want
Every undecided item becomes an allowance, and allowances are where budgets break.
Independent cost estimate in hand for the project and region
Use the calculators at realcostiq.com so you have a number before anyone quotes one at you.
At least three contractors lined up
2 · Verify each contractor
Licence number obtained — and verified with the issuing board, not just the paperwork
Liability insurance certificate obtained and verified with the insurer
Workers' compensation cover confirmed
Without it, an injury on your property can become your problem.
Physical business address confirmed
Reviews checked on a rating site you trust
References from recent, comparable jobs — and actually called
3 · Every quote must contain
Detailed scope of work
Labor and materials broken out — not one lump sum
Every allowance listed, with the assumed amount stated
Change-order process: written, priced, and signed before work proceeds
Payment schedule tied to completed milestones, not calendar dates
Workmanship warranty — what, how long, and by whom
Who pulls the permits (it should be the contractor, not you)
4 · Red flags — walk away
Pressure to decide immediately
Demands payment in full up front
Cash only, or asks for wire transfer, gift card, payment app, or cryptocurrency
Offers a discount using "leftover materials from another job"
Asks you to pull the building permits
Pushes you toward a lender they have a relationship with
Will not provide licence, insurance, or a written contract
Deposits. Never pay the full amount before work starts, and never make the final payment until the
work is done and you are satisfied. Some states limit the deposit a contractor may request — contact your state or
local consumer protection agency or contractor licensing board to find the rule where you live. Pay by credit card
or cheque so you retain some recourse.
5 · Normalize the three bids
Line
Bid A
Bid B
Bid C
Quoted total
Labor
Materials
Allowances as quoted
Allowances repriced to what you want
Permits (included? cost?)
Demolition & debris removal
Other exclusions you must cover
Contingency (10–20% is typical)
True comparable total
Deposit requested
Completion date
Warranty term
Compare the true comparable totals, never the quoted totals. A bid far below the others is usually
missing scope rather than offering a bargain.
6 · Before you sign
Read the whole contract, including the change-order and dispute sections
Confirmed the payment schedule never runs ahead of completed work
Lien waiver process understood for subcontractors and suppliers
Contractor's name on the contract matches the licence exactly
You have a signed copy before any money changes hands