There are a number of different factors that go into pricing a remodeling project. Check the obvious first. Make sure that every estimate includes the same scope of work. If the estimates are so vague that you cannot decipher the information, go back to the contractor for clarification in writing–not just verbal confirmation over the phone or in-person. If you cannot get satisfactory written results, eliminate that contractor from future bidding. Another factor is “Builders Allowances”. This can greatly affect an estimate. An allowance for a $175.00 sink one contractor may include may not be realistic to the homeowners style and result in upgrade charges later. A contractor who includes an allowance for finish materials will typically allow for quality products. The best way to compare estimates is to request that allowances for finish materials (fixtures, flooring, and tile be left out of the estimate) or at least show them separately so they can easily be compared. When a contractor carries all the proper and required insurances, their prices will be higher than a contractor that doesn’t carry the proper insurance. It is required a construction contractor be licensed, bonded, have liability insurance and if they have even one employee (helper), they must have worker’s comp insurance. Request a copy of the contractor’s certificate of liability insurance and verify the rest on the CSLB website “check a business license”. The level of service given by a contractor greatly affects the cost. If the contractor spends lots of time picking out materials, attending to every detail, and taking care of all the little extras, so you don’t have to, it will cost a little extra. When a contractor carries all the proper and required insurances, their prices will be higher than a contractor that doesn’t carry the proper insurance. Quality of work, which is hard to show in a written estimate, is also a factor in costs. For example, our carpenters offer high-quality craftsmanship. That piece of mind is worth extra money up front to most people. This facet of the cost difference is usually only confirmed by calling references or visiting jobs the contractor has done in the past.
