Planning guide
How to read and compare contractor quotes
Published by Clear House · Updated
Short answer
A good quote names the work, materials, brands, quantities, schedule, payment terms, warranty and what is excluded. Compare quotes line by line; the lowest total often leaves something out.
What a quote should include
- Business name, contact details and license number if required.
- Detailed scope of work.
- Materials with brand, model or product line and quantities.
- Removal and disposal.
- Permits and who obtains them.
- Start date and expected duration.
- Payment schedule.
- Warranty on labor and materials.
- Exclusions and how changes are priced.
Comparing two or more quotes
- Put each quote's line items side by side.
- Look for missing items: tear-off, prep, trim, disposal, permits.
- Ask about allowances, which are placeholders that can grow.
- Ask each contractor to explain a big price difference.
Quotes in Clear House
When a pro quotes your project in Clear House, the quote comes to you in the app. The pro can revise it, and you decide whether to accept. Nothing is agreed until you accept.
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- U.S. Federal Trade Commission — How To Avoid a Home Improvement Scam — Advice on licenses, insurance, written estimates, contracts and down payments.
Related
Clear House is a marketplace, not a contractor. Costs on this page are published averages or planning ranges, not quotes, and your price will differ. Always confirm licensing, insurance and permits with the pro you hire.