How to compare contractor quotes fairly
Comparing totals only works when the quotes describe the same job. Here's how to line them up scope-first, so the price difference means something.
ScopeGrade EditorialWritten with working contractors2 min read
Three quotes come back: $14,200, $18,900 and $22,500. The natural instinct is to look at the middle one and wonder whether the cheap one is a bargain. But until you know the three quotes describe the same work, the totals don't tell you much at all.
Step 1: make sure everyone quoted the same thing
Differences in scope are the most common reason quotes differ. Before comparing prices, line the quotes up item by item:
| Scope item | Quote A — $14,200 | Quote B — $18,900 | Quote C — $22,500 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Excavation & disposal | Included | Included | Included |
| Base depth | Not stated | 6″ compacted | 8″ compacted |
| Pavers | “Interlock” | Named product & colour | Named product & colour |
| Edge restraint | Not mentioned | Included | Included |
| Lawn restoration | Excluded | Included | Included |
| Warranty | 1 year | 3 years | 5 years |
Step 2: ask each contractor to fill the gaps
Send each contractor the same short list of questions for anything missing or unclear: base depth, product names, what's excluded, how changes are priced. A careful contractor will answer quickly. The answers often move the cheap quote up — or reveal that it was simply a different, smaller job.
Step 3: compare like with like
- Normalise allowances. If one quote has a $1,000 allowance for drainage and another includes drainage outright, compare them with the allowance used in full.
- Check quantities. 400 sq ft and 432 sq ft of patio aren't the same job.
- Compare warranties and payment terms, not just price. A big deposit up front carries more risk than payments tied to progress.
- Weigh the timeline. Starting in three weeks and starting next spring are different offers.
Step 4: then compare price — and the contractor
Once the scope matches, price differences are real and fair to compare. At that point, the cheapest quote may well be the right choice. Weigh it alongside how clearly each contractor explained their work, their references and insurance, and how they answered your questions.
Put it into practice
Before the estimate4 min
What to have ready before you request a quote
Turn “how much for a patio?” into a request a contractor can actually price.
Measure & plan4 min
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Give contractors the measurements, access details and photos they need to understand your project before they visit.
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