When seeking a contractor for home repairs, what is the recommended practice regarding bids?

The recommended practice when seeking a contractor for home repairs is to get multiple bids before making a decision. This approach allows homeowners to compare costs, understand the range of services offered, and gauge contractor reliability. Obtaining several bids provides you with a broader perspective on the market rates for your specific repair needs, which helps in making an informed choice.

By reviewing multiple bids, homeowners can look at different contractor offerings in terms of price, scope of work, timelines, and materials. It’s also an opportunity to ask questions to clarify any doubts about the services proposed. This practice is instrumental in ensuring that you’re not only getting a fair price but also that you’re selecting a contractor who meets your expectations in terms of quality and professionalism.

In contrast, relying on a single bid may leave you vulnerable to potential overcharges or inadequate work, and selecting solely based on the lowest bid could compromise quality. While online reviews are useful for initial vetting, they should complement, rather than replace, the detailed examination you obtain through multiple bids.