A quote total is not the whole scope.
This fictional example illustrates why a lower total is not automatically a like-for-like comparison.
Room check
A 10 × 12 × 8 ft room has 352 ft² of wall area. Adding the 120 ft² ceiling and deducting a 20 ft² opening gives 452 ft². This is a geometry check only; it does not establish a contractor's pricing or final scope.
Two written quotes
| Item | Quote A | Quote B |
|---|---|---|
| Original total | $1,000 | $1,080 |
| Stated area | 452 ft², walls and ceiling | 352 ft², walls |
| Finish | Level 4 stated | “finish drywall” |
| Disposal | Excluded; $100 stated allowance | Unclear |
| Known adjusted scenario | $1,100 | $1,080 plus unresolved disposal |
What the worksheet should say
It should not call these quotes directly comparable. Quote A’s $100 disposal allowance can be added to create a known $1,100 scenario; Quote B’s disposal cost stays unresolved. The stated areas and finish wording also differ.
Useful follow-up questions
- Does each total cover 452 ft², including the ceiling and the opening deduction?
- What finish level, preparation, and touch-up work are included?
- Is removal and disposal included, excluded with a known allowance, or not addressed?
- Are taxes and permits included, separate, or not applicable?