Negotiating with contractors

[jimbo2012]

It appears in reading these forums that a few take advantage of some of the seniors here, like we're "marks"

Perhaps this can be a thread on tips & tricks to deal with them.

Before I ask for price on work to be done I ask
- how long will it take you?
- how many men?

Then I work that out depending on the skill level to X$ per.hour.

So if you have a menial labor task say, use a figure of $10 hr
But a skilled tradesmen $25 hr.

So now they told you how many hours and men you have a ball park figure to work with.

Now some trades go by the square foot so take that into consideration also.

Also if you supply the materials you will usually save $

I can call for a delivery of something at HD as well as them without a 15-20% markup.

Also no upfront money you pay when they're done & you're happy.

Anything over say $250 get a estimate (not sure I like that word estimate) or bid for the work detailing in writing what your getting and a drop dead completion date.

Ask for references nearby.