The most common problem with comparing bids is that they are not describing the same job. One includes disposal, another does not. One assumes the existing base is sound, another assumes it needs rebuilding.
Make the bids comparable first
Write down the scope you want, in your own words, and give the same document to everyone bidding. Then you are comparing prices for one job rather than prices for three different jobs.
Questions worth asking every time
On scope - What is explicitly included, and what is explicitly excluded? - What condition are you assuming for anything you cannot currently see? - Is disposal and haul-away included?
On changes - How is additional work priced? - Does work stop until a change order is approved in writing? - What conditions would most likely trigger one on this job?
On permits and inspections - Are permits required for this scope, and who pulls them? - Who schedules inspections?
On schedule - What is the expected start and duration? - What conditions pause the job, and how will I be told? - What are the material lead times?
On the company - Can I verify your current insurance directly? - Can I see references for work of this type and size?
Warning signs
- Pressure to decide immediately.
- A large deposit demanded before anything is scheduled.
- Reluctance to put the scope in writing.
- A verbal assurance that contradicts the written document. The written document is what governs.
Cheapest is not the metric
The useful comparison is price against a defined scope. A lower number that excludes the base preparation, the permit, or the disposal is not actually lower — it is incomplete.