How do I put a project out for bid?

            Once you have an a full set of blue prints clients typically put the project out for bid.  IF you put your project out for bid, the primary thing to remember is not to compare apples and oranges.

            By this time of the process you have already probably narrowed down your favorite contractor.  They may have even spent a lot of time discussing the project with you.  There is a good chance they helped to formulate and modify your design.  These people deserve respect in this process.  Their desire to help you in the early phases of the project illustrates their commitment.  If you don’t choose them in the end they should be compensated for their services.

            In order to respect your favorite contractor, if you put a project out for bid do it properly.  Not only should you provide blueprints to work from, but you also have to provide a detailed list of everything that is to be included in the bid.  Specify all materials and manufactures that are to be used.  If you just specify a 3x5 double hung window, for example,  one contractor may specify Andersen while the other may specify General Millworks.  For obscure little details, like lighting fixtures, specify an allowance in the bid rather than a breakdown.  By doing this the allowances can be removed out of each bid to get to the basis of the estimate.

            Also remember that any building project requires trust and understanding.  Don’t choose the lowest bidder if there is any doubt in your mind.  Don’t choose a bidder who you don’t get along with.  Don’t choose a bidder who wants a substantial down payment up front.

            From a contractor’s point of view don’t ask for an estimate just to keep the other guy honest.  A proper bid requires a lot of time and effort.  If you know who you are going to use DON”T WASTE MY TIME!

Back to FAQ's