From Family Handyman · Chris Deziel · · 1m 10s
Why Contractors Give High Estimates
Contractors explain why quotes exceed expectations.
In brief
Contractors explain why quotes exceed expectations. Contractors give high estimates due to labor costs, scope misunderstandings, expertise value, rising costs, avoiding surprises, online pricing guides, redoing previous work, or refusing jobs. Originally reported by Family Handyman.
You Forgot to Consider Labor Costs
Clients often forget labor and consultation fees when comparing HVAC or plumbing parts.
“If an HVAC unit has a defective part that needs replacement, most of my clients will immediately ask how much the replacement part costs”
You Underestimate the Scope of the Project
Customers compare quotes for different work, missing underlying issues that require more labor.
“A lot of the time, the customer is comparing quotes for different work, because the cheaper one has included a surface repair whereas the more expensive one has quoted for fixing the underlying problem”
You’re Undervaluing Professional Expertise
Professional expertise ensures quick, accurate repairs without long-term issues.
“I can go get that part for $X at Home Depot”
Costs Are Rising
Tariffs, inflation, and economic conditions push contractor prices higher.
“The fact of the matter is, we’re working harder now and making less”
The Contractor Is Trying to Avoid Surprises
Contractors warn about hidden issues to prevent unexpected high bills after work.
“There are times, when the actual fix isn’t that complicated, but it’s the access that makes things tough”
You’re Relying Too Closely on Online Pricing Guides
Online pricing guides don’t account for local market variations in home repair costs.
“Owners often find an estimate online, and rather than waiting for a bid, they assume that number will be the actual cost”
The Contractor Needs to Redo Previous Work
Past work mistakes can lead to additional repairs, increasing the final cost.
“Over a 40-year career, I’ve found many surprises: unsupported headers, no king or jack studs”
The Contractor Doesn’t Want the Job
Contractors offer high quotes to avoid extra work that could exceed their capacity.
“Sometimes a house is in such poor condition that a small repair, such as stopping a plumbing leak, can turn into a major project”
The essence
Contractors give high estimates due to labor costs, scope misunderstandings, expertise value, rising costs, avoiding surprises, online pricing guides, redoing previous work, or refusing jobs.
