Home Improvement Resource Guide

Getting bids

Once you have done your homework and feel comfortable working with a few contractors, it is time to get your bids. Below are items to be aware of when getting bids.

Be as detailed and itemized as possible on your bids. This will ensure that all the work you have envisioned is actually included in the scope of work and price. This will leave no guessing up to the contractor.
Be sure that each bid is similar. This means that you have to be careful to tell each contractor the same information and don't assume that they "know what you mean."
Try to get multiple bids for each project whether it is from a general contractor or individual trades people. This will help you make sure you are getting a competitive price for your work.
Be wary of a verbal estimate. Get all estimates in writing.
Carefully compare bids. The lowest bid may not be the best bid. Make sure that all the details are written out in the bid. Also make sure that the contractor has not added anything to the bid that you did not ask for.
Do a line item comparison of each bid to make sure that each bid has the same materials and scope of work included in it.
Ask questions.

For more information, contact:

Regina Harris, Administrator
PH: 952-563-8937, TTY: 952-563-8740, FAX: 952-563-4977
E-mail:hra@ci.bloomington.mn.us