01
Clear scope of work
State exactly what work is being performed, in which rooms or areas, and to what finished standard.
Quote checklist
A good quote helps you understand the project, not just the price.
Before comparing totals, make sure you can tell what work is included, what is excluded, which materials are specified, how changes are handled and what happens if hidden conditions are discovered.
02
Specific materials or allowances
Product type, grade, model or a real dollar allowance should be written into the estimate.
03
Quantities where relevant
Square footage, linear feet, fixture counts or units let you check that bids measure the same job.
04
Demolition and disposal
Confirm removal, haul-away, dumping fees and debris cleanup are included.
05
Preparation work
Look for subfloor, sheathing, wall or surface prep and whether repairs to them are priced or excluded.
06
Permit or inspection responsibilities
Identify who pulls the permit, pays the fee and is present for inspections.
07
Exclusions
Anything not included — painting, electrical, patching, appliances — should be listed, not implied.
08
Timeline and sequencing assumptions
Expect a start window, an estimated duration and what the schedule depends on, such as material lead times.
09
Payment schedule
Deposit size and each later payment should be tied to completed milestones, not calendar dates alone.
10
Change-order process
The estimate should explain how unexpected work is approved and priced before it begins.
11
Workmanship and product warranties
Check how long the contractor stands behind the labor, separate from the manufacturer's product warranty.
12
Cleanup and site protection
Note how floors, landscaping and furnishings are protected and how the site is left each day.
13
Owner-supplied materials
If you buy anything yourself, confirm who handles delivery, damage and installation responsibility.
14
Conditions that could change the price
Hidden rot, wiring, asbestos or code upgrades should be named, with how they would be priced if found.
Do not assume the cheapest quote is incomplete or the highest quote is excessive. First identify whether the contractors are pricing the same scope.