What we check automatically
- Each bid against typical local pricing for the work, where our data supports it.
- Whether the bidder has license and insurance info on file, and whether it's verified.
- The bidder's verified-job rating. Every star comes from a homeowner whose accepted bid that contractor completed here; there is no other way to get one.
- Estimate-only bids, which can move after work starts. Ask what could change the number.
- Suspicious spreads: when the lowest bid is less than half the highest, someone misread the scope.
What only you can check
- Verify the license yourself with your state's lookup (in Florida: the DBPR license search).
- Ask for a certificate of insurance naming you as certificate holder for bigger jobs.
- Read the inclusions and exclusions on every bid before comparing prices. A cheaper bid that excludes haul-away isn't cheaper.
- Never pay large deposits in cash, and never pay anyone claiming to collect for the contractor.
Price ranges are estimates, not quotes, and we are not a party to your contract with the contractor. The final agreement, in writing, is between the two of you.
Related articles