Rich writes: On 75 townhouse units, is it better to get bids or pay for time and materials on new siding and repair of dry rot? You can't tell the extent of the dry rot until the siding is removed. I think the job will cost $300,000 to $400,000 to complete. The association members have many views. What do you advise? Steve Bliss of BuildingAdvisor.com responds: It sounds … [Read more...] about Getting Bids for Rot Repair
Bidding
Should I Pay for a Remodeling Estimate?
Thom asks: Should I pay for a cost estimate? This is a remodel project of a kitchen and three baths. Steve Bliss of BuildingAdvisor.com responds: While most contractors advertise "Free Estimates," some contractors charge a fee for estimates – especially higher-end contractors who often spend a lot of time preparing detailed estimates, plans, and specifications for jobs they … [Read more...] about Should I Pay for a Remodeling Estimate?
Allowances — What’s Fair? Also Fixed-Price vs. Cost-Plus Bids
Dawn writes: I need help! I am a homeowner who is doing a major remodel. I should say up front that I really like the GC we have picked... good reputation and references, been around forever. He has been very fair about working with us to change wording in our potential contract so that both of us feel like our interests are covered, etc. We have not signed a contract with … [Read more...] about Allowances — What’s Fair? Also Fixed-Price vs. Cost-Plus Bids
Estimate Seems Vague on Details
Robert writes: I am planning to build a second home. The builder who I hired has refused to provide copies of his bids for the various parts of the building process. He claims it’s not normal business practice and he’s never done it before. However, he did provide a document titled “Scope of Work” in which he identified the costs for the various parts of the project. The … [Read more...] about Estimate Seems Vague on Details