Contractor estimate comparison worksheet

Compare the same work before the price

A quote total is meaningful only in the context of its scope. Begin with a written description of the work you asked each business to price. Identify the equipment or finish specification, quantity, preparation, access conditions, removal, cleanup and completion record. If one contractor proposes a different solution, keep it visible as a different option rather than assuming the totals describe equivalent work.

Distinguish exclusions from unknowns

Enter the quoted base amount. Add only known costs excluded from that amount in the extras field. For example, if a proposal already includes an allowance, do not add the same allowance a second time. When an exclusion is unpriced, leave its amount blank and describe the gap in the scope notes. The result labels that uncertainty instead of silently treating it as zero.

Questions a subtotal cannot answer

Clarify who obtains approvals, what triggers a change order, when payments become due, what documentation accompanies completion and which warranty terms apply. Verify the business identity and relevant qualifications through the appropriate authorities; Florida DBPR explains construction license verification. A directory listing and a polished estimate are separate from that verification.

Read the worksheet

The tool shows each base amount, known excluded extras and a known subtotal. It does not select a winner, judge workmanship or validate a contractor’s legal scope. Use the rows to ask targeted follow-up questions. If the scope changes, request a revised written proposal so the comparison reflects the final option you are considering.