Can you point to the work in writing?
A conversation is not the same thing as written scope. Look for specific descriptions of demolition, preparation, installation, materials, protection, cleanup, permits, inspections, and repairs to surrounding finishes. If a major part of the job was discussed but does not appear in the proposal, ask where it is included before relying on it.
Do the allowances describe what the money buys?
An allowance should be more than a placeholder number. Ask what product, quantity, quality level, tax, delivery, labor, markup, and overage handling the allowance covers. A low allowance can make a bid look attractive while moving predictable cost into later change orders.
Does each payment follow measurable progress?
The payment schedule should let both sides identify what has been completed before the next payment is earned. Watch for schedules that put most of the money ahead of the work, use vague milestones, or make final payment due before inspection, punch-list completion, cleanup, and required closeout documents.
What happens when the work changes?
The proposal should explain who can authorize additional work, how price and schedule effects are documented, whether markup applies, and when approval must occur. “We will work it out later” is not a change-order procedure.
Who owns the work around the work?
Many disputes begin outside the main line item: permits, engineering, utility disconnects, access, dust control, temporary protection, moving contents, debris disposal, patching, painting, landscaping, testing, and damage to concealed conditions. The proposal should identify which party carries each responsibility.
How does the job actually finish?
Look for final inspection, punch-list procedure, warranty terms, manuals, lien releases where appropriate, cleanup, and a clear definition of substantial and final completion. A proposal that explains how work starts but not how it closes leaves the last payment exposed.
Is the contractor estimate too high—or is another bid incomplete?
A higher total is not automatically excessive, and a lower total is not automatically a bargain. First compare the written scope, quantities, material levels, allowances, exclusions, schedule, payment risk, and closeout. Only then do the totals begin to mean the same thing.
A remote document review can identify whether the amount is internally consistent with the written proposal and where clarification is needed. It cannot replace a site visit or guarantee the correct local market price.
Questions worth asking before you sign
- Where is the work we discussed shown in this proposal?
- Which materials and quantities are included in each allowance?
- What is specifically excluded from the price?
- What completed work earns each payment?
- How are change orders priced and approved before the work proceeds?
- Who handles permits, cleanup, repairs, testing, and closeout?
- What must be complete before final payment is due?