I retired from a real job and started my one man part time remodeling biz 5 years ago to keep me out of LOML’s hair. I usually do small jobs—-one room remodel, odd jobs—-and just charge for labor and delivery/handling.
I now need to write a whole house remodel bid, with a bit of demo/reframing. Mostly interior rehab with a closet addition bumpout. This is a rental unit, 5 room house with a rehabbed foundation.
I have a pretty good idea of the materials involved, labor rates, and time involved, but I need some info/examples on how the actual paper form needs to be done. Can’t find an overall form online—lots of bath or kitchen remodel stuff.
DEJA MOO: THE FEELING THAT YOU’VE HEARD ALL THIS BULL BEFORE.
Replies
Yeah, I'm no expert at these......wrote a couple, but had a more experienced friend help me.
You will need to get a contract form, and write out a detailed scope of work. Put everything in your scope of work (even clean up! and details!) The more detailed, the less chance you'll have a falling out with the owner over something you were "supposed to do"
Just pull out your copy! Also in the contract, you would refer to "see attached scope of work" in the description of work sections.........
But anyway, for more and better advice, post something in the Buisiness section of the forum here!
Also, you can buy book of form and contract at office stores (like staples)
Surely with all these contractors running around, someone would have more advice for this guy?
When in doubt, get a bigger hammer!
Those of us that do this stuff for a living generally use written documents that we've developed over many years of doing business. Most of us have put a ton of time, and often money, into our contracts and proposal forms, and don't just throw them out there on internet forums. I would have to know a lot about you before emailing you samples of stuff like that.
What I will tell you is that you should include at least the following:
(1) detailed scope of work (sometimes refers to a plan set, sometimes not)
(2) list of exlusions
(3) list of assumptions
(4) price, including any particular terms
(5) scheduling info (which may be simply a statement that no work is scheduled until a signed contract is received).
Knowing how to build stuff is the easy part, although it's often not easy. Knowing how to conduct business in a way that keeps you in control is the hard part.
I'll try and think of an exact answer to your Q, but in the mean time try:
http://www.costestimator.com and http://www.Building-Cost.net for help.
I tried to Google up 'officework'. I don't know how I got my zipfile of it, but it has most anything you need in it. Sorry - not much help, I guess.
ciao for niao
To those who know - this may be obvious. To those who don't - I hope I've helped.
Edited 9/27/2005 1:23 am ET by piko
Edited 9/27/2005 1:29 am ET by piko
2 things I generally include on remodeling contracts-
a clause stating any hidden problems ( rot, improper framing, etc.) are not my responsibility and will cost to be fixed.
and, if there's any finish materials that haven't been decided on, a reasonable material allowance. I don't like to lowball allowances; it causes more problems than its worth.
I've had arguements about the hidden problems one, but I just tell them I don't have x-ray vision and can't determine whats wrong before tearing things apart. But some customers (fortunately, not many) think the contractor should be responsible for anything and everything.