Detailed Quotes

[central1ny]

So I have been getting quotes for the foundation and site-work required for my new garage. I have gotten six quotes and found that none of the quotes are very detailed at all. They all have just a few line items describing the high level work to be completed but not down to details like concrete strength, rebar used, etc. This concerns me as if I am going to drop 10K-15K, I want to know exactly what I am getting. All of the contractors reassure me that they are going to do what I want, but without it in writing, what guarentee do I have?

Is this a standard practice? Should I insist on a very detailed quote? I was considering drawing up a construction contract and requiring the contractor to sign. The contract would contain all of the agreed to construction details. Is this overkill?

 

[darkk]

I had the same issue when I had my concrete done. They usually just quote you for forms and standard pour concrete. I had to specifically state what I wanted. 3500psi concrete with 6 mil plastic sheeting under the concrete to prevent water being sucked out the bottom,fiber mesh,6x6 metal mesh screening, etc..fix it now because you can't fix it after. In writing.

 

[danski0224]

So I have been getting quotes for the foundation and site-work required for my new garage. I have gotten six quotes and found that none of the quotes are very detailed at all. They all have just a few line items describing the high level work to be completed but not down to details like concrete strength, rebar used, etc. This concerns me as if I am going to drop 10K-15K, I want to know exactly what I am getting. All of the contractors reassure me that they are going to do what I want, but without it in writing, what guarentee do I have?

Is this a standard practice? Should I insist on a very detailed quote? I was considering drawing up a construction contract and requiring the contractor to sign. The contract would contain all of the agreed to construction details. Is this overkill?

If you know what you want, and know the specs, then by all means write something up.

Make sure that your provided list of specs is included in the bid you receive. Considering that you wrote it, it isn't a big deal.

That is the only way to ensure that you are getting the work you want.

If someone provided that for me, I would have no problem including the wording "work performed to customer supplied specifications", and those details *would* be included in writing. Not only would I sign it, but you would, too.

If someone balks, then they just excluded themselves from the project. Pretty simple.

Just be sure that whatever specs you are providing will work, and are compatible with the project.

 

[ConCretin]

The best protection you have it to become an educated consumer - the fact that you are on GJ means you know this - and figure out exactly what you want.

Next you need to discuss your 'specs' with your contractor. Hold your ground. Many contractors want to do things the way they always do. Be prepared to pay a little extra if you need to.

Finally you need to have a written agreement that covers the scope as well as items like payment, insurance, changes and dispute resolution. Many states have forms you can download. In Maine, if the contractor doesn't utilize the proper form of contract he may actually lose his rights to payment.

If you did a good job on the first two steps, you probably won't need a contract but if you do you'll be very glad you have it.

 

[nehog]

One thing that helps greatly is to write up, exactly, what you are getting the quote. Size, location, materials, how it is shaped, (if foundation/slab) footing size and shape, any special things like rebar, mesh or fiber, additives, finish, door treatment, etc.

Include drawings as needed, show any access doors, where utilities go, side and top elevations, the works.

As much detail as possible, fully describe what it is that you want. The degree of detail you provide will give the contractor something to go on. Don't be afraid to modify these plans if the contractor suggests changes, but realize once you make a change for one contractor, the other quotes won't compare easily.

With that the person can give the quote by simply referencing your document (and attaching it).

As the man says: "Success is in the planning."