About this example
This scenario is hypothetical. The bids and contractors are invented, and no prices are shown because this site does not quote them.
An owner receives two written repipe estimates. One total is much lower. Before choosing it, the owner fills in the quote comparison worksheet, one column per bid, using only what each estimate says in writing.
What the worksheet showed
| Line item | Bid A | Bid B |
|---|---|---|
| License checked at cslb.ca.gov | Active | Active |
| Material named | PEX, type and fittings listed | Not specified |
| Fixture list | Room by room | Not listed |
| Main shutoff replaced | Yes | Not mentioned |
| Permit | Included | Not mentioned |
| Patching and paint | Patch, texture, paint | Drywall patch only |
What the owner did next
Asked Bid B for detail
Requested material, fixtures, valve and permit terms in writing.
Compared revised bids
Once the scopes matched, the gap between totals narrowed.
Checked payment terms
Confirmed both tied payments to completed stages.
Decided on scope and fit
Chose based on the complete written scope and how questions were answered.
Lessons from the example
- Compare scope before totals.
- Treat anything unwritten as not included until confirmed.
- Ask each contractor to explain differences with the other bid.
- Keep every revision in writing.
Common questions
Are these real bids?
No. Both bids are invented for illustration.
Is the lower bid always worse?
No. Once scopes match, a lower bid may just be lower. Compare the same job, then compare the totals.
Where is the worksheet?
See the repipe quote comparison worksheet on this site.
General information for Yorba Linda, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.