Compare scope before price
Large plumbing jobs, such as a repipe, a sewer lateral repair or a water heater conversion, are rarely priced the same way by two contractors. One estimate may include drywall patching, a new main shutoff and the permit; another may list only the pipe. The lower number is not always the smaller bill once the gaps are filled.
Ask each contractor to put their scope in writing, then use this worksheet to note what each one includes. Where something is missing, ask rather than assume.
Side-by-side comparison
| Item | Estimate 1 | Estimate 2 | Estimate 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| CSLB license verified | |||
| Diagnosis method described (camera, pressure test, leak detection) | |||
| Exact work and route described | |||
| Materials and brands named | |||
| Permit and inspection included | |||
| Drywall, concrete or landscape restoration | |||
| Cleanup and haul-away | |||
| Testing after the work | |||
| Written warranty terms | |||
| Payment schedule |
Red flags to note
- A price with no description of the work.
- Vague terms such as 'as needed' without limits.
- No mention of a permit on work that commonly needs one.
- A large deposit requested before any materials are ordered.
- Pressure to sign the same day for non-emergency work.
Two ways a sewer estimate might read
Narrow scope
- Replace damaged section of lateral.
- No mention of camera before or after.
- Restoration of lawn not listed.
- Permit not mentioned.
Full scope
- Replace a stated length of lateral at a stated location.
- Camera inspection before and after, with video provided.
- Backfill and lawn or walkway restoration described.
- Permit and inspection included.
Follow-up questions for each contractor
- What happens if you find more damage once the work starts?
- Which items on another estimate are not in yours, and why?
- Who is my point of contact during the job?
- When would the work start and how many days will it take?
Common questions
How many estimates should I get?
For a large, non-emergency job, two or three written estimates usually give enough to compare.
Should I share one estimate with another contractor?
You can describe the scope you want priced. Sharing a full estimate is your choice, but asking each contractor to price the same scope is the fairest comparison.
What if the estimates recommend different repairs?
Ask each to explain the reason, and request any camera video or test results that support it.
General information for La Mirada, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.