Comparing Contractor Estimates

[Ursula Lovings]

I was hoping to get some professional opinions and expertise.  I have 2 quotes for renovation work on a house.  One quote has the items listed, shows the price of each item as $0 and then has a final total.  I have no idea what the breakdown of each item is, but the overall cost is reasonable.  The other quote has the items listed but with a breakdown price of each item.  The total is higher for this one.  
Is an estimate with no cost breakdown a red flag? I know cheaper is not always better.  I'm concerned with being hit with a lot of "unexpected" costs as the project starts.

Any advice would be appreciated.

[Quentin Ambrose]

Hey Ursula, I don't think breaking down the cost is more important than detailing the SOW(scope of work). If they haven't already, ask both of them to provide a detailed scope of work and then compare pricing based on the scope they provide. If they don't want to give a scope of work that's a huge red flag. Most contractors inflate materials so if you can, pay for them yourself. 

I own a Masonry and Lawncare Company

[Julie Garner]

Is it possible that the cheaper quote with the $0 does not include the materials?

[Quentin Ambrose]

Quote from @Julie Garner:

Is it possible that the cheaper quote with the $0 does not include the materials?

 That's possible but I doubt it unless you told them you might pay for materials. Cheaper usually means

1. Misjudged the job cost (contractor error, usually results in asking for more money)

2. Desperate for the job (Usually results in asking for more money or unsatisfied client/using one job's money to pay for the next job).

3. Just being nice or that's just what they charge!

[Ursula Lovings]

@Julie Garner This contractor texted me after I received the quote to let me know that materials are included.

@Quentin Ambrose Thanks for the feedback.  Based on conversations, I think it might be a little of #2.