Put every bid into the same categories
- Base scope.
- Materials/products.
- Demolition.
- Disposal.
- Permits/inspections.
- Subcontractors.
- Site protection.
- Cleanup.
- Allowances.
- Exclusions.
- Payment schedule.
- Start date/window.
- Duration.
- Warranty.
- Change-order process.
Ask these questions when totals differ
- Is one contractor including a repair another excluded?
- Are the material specifications equivalent?
- Are permit and disposal costs included?
- Does one bid assume hidden damage while another does not?
- Are painting, trim, drywall or finish restoration included?
- Is the cheaper bid relying on allowances that could grow later?
Verify before signing
Check Oregon CCB licensing, confirm the contracting business name and read the written contract. Keep change orders in writing and understand the payment schedule before work begins.
For inspection-related repairs
If the goal is to decide whether to buy a home, you may need a credible range rather than a construction-ready bid. Ask the contractor to identify what is known, what is hidden and what could move the price materially.
Common questions
Should I automatically choose the middle bid?
No. Choose based on scope, qualifications, communication and value; the middle price has no special significance.
What is the biggest bid-comparison mistake?
Comparing totals before confirming that the scopes, materials and exclusions are actually comparable.
Official sources & further research
For rules, licensing and local programs, use the current primary source before making a decision.