Compare scope first, total last
A spot repair bid and a reroute bid are not two prices for the same thing. Neither are a bid that includes finished drywall and one that stops at a rough patch. Before you look at totals, make sure each line below is filled in for every bid. Where a bid is silent, write 'not stated' and ask.
If two contractors recommend different repairs, ask each one to price the other's approach as well. That gives you a true side-by-side and often reveals why they disagree.
Side-by-side worksheet
| Item | Bid A | Bid B | Bid C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contractor and CSLB license number (checked at cslb.ca.gov) | |||
| Leak detection included, separate or credited | |||
| Side and location of leak per their testing | |||
| Repair type: spot repair, reroute or repipe | |||
| Which lines or fixtures are covered | |||
| Pipe material to be used | |||
| Floor, wall and ceiling openings | |||
| Patching: rough or finished, concrete and drywall | |||
| Flooring replacement included? | |||
| Permit included and who pulls it | |||
| Testing before closing up | |||
| Water outage expected | |||
| Warranty terms, in their words | |||
| Exclusions listed | |||
| Total price |
Fill it in
- Copy, do not interpret.Use each bid's own words for each row so you are not guessing what they meant.
- Mark the gaps.Highlight any row a bid leaves blank.
- Ask the same questions.Send each contractor the same list of gap questions and record the answers.
- Adjust for exclusions.If one bid excludes patching or permits, note what you would need to add to match the others.
- Then compare totals.Only once the scopes line up does comparing the totals mean much.
Signs of a clear bid vs a vague one
Clear
- Names the leaking line and how it was confirmed
- Describes every opening and how it will be closed
- States permit handling plainly
- Lists exclusions
Vague
- Says only 'repair slab leak'
- Leaves patching or flooring for later
- Silent on permits and testing
- Pressure to sign before you can compare
Common questions
How many bids do I need?
For larger jobs such as a reroute or repipe, two or three written bids are common. For a small, well-located spot repair, fewer may be reasonable.
Should I share one bid with another contractor?
You can describe the scope you want priced without sharing the other bid. Asking each to price the same scope keeps the comparison fair.
What if bids disagree about where the leak is?
That is important. Ask each how they located it and how confident they are before choosing.
General information for Anaheim Hills, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.