Frowned upon to have 2 of the same type sub-contractors on site?

Question

Is it frowned upon to have two of the same type of sub-contractors on site estimating something at the same time? For example, I want to get three estimates for an electric upgrade. Will it be a turn off to the electricians if I have multiple (2) electricians on site estimating at the same time? I have a limited amount of time to access the property. Same question for plumbers, HVAC, etc.

Thanks for the help!

Matthew Paul · Answer

I have had it happen quite a few times . It goes something like this . Me to other contractor . " Hey Bill how have you been ?  Good , how about you ?  You want this job ?  Na , he is price shopping , we are swamped with work .  Yup so are we , Look here comes Steve , he called him too .  All three of us talk in front of the house , " Who is gonna give him a price ?   Not me , me either I am out , Steve says he will throw out a number and see what sticks .

Craig Tripp · Answer

I don’t expect (not do I want) every job and asume most owners are getting second opinions.

However, I would not perform an estimate with another foundation repair company at the same house at the same time.  If the cheapest option is the goal have every trade email you in a “bid.”

I’m focused on bringing stability and value to the home and don’t think an owner that has 3x Foundation repairmen, 3x Plumbers, 3x Roofers, 3x... all at the same time is interested in and can understand the value that we provide.  If they’re not willing to give me adequate time to present the repairs for their home, I’m not interested in coming up with a course of action and it’s on to the next home.

Jay M. · Answer

All contractors and sub-contractors know you're bidding it out.  Don't rub it in their face. As @Derek Robertson mentioned some of them will keep driving.  I know I have on a few occasions.

Lee Bell · Answer

Let them know you are getting multiple bids.

But never schedule them at the same time.

I want to give each one my full attention.

I am learning here. You should be too.

Derek Robertson · Answer

Absolutely depends on the market. In slow times, sure bring a bunch and let them do business and fight for the sale. I think in areas like Seattle (Where I run a plumbing company) where the market is hot. If I show up and there is another plumber on site bidding a small job, Im going to keep driving. Most plumbers do free estimates and Its a waste of time having us out if you are going to tire kick for a sub 10k job. IMO

Craig Tripp · Answer

@Eddie Gonnella

It’ll get easier the more you do, provided you find professional contractors that you can trust.  When you develop a relationship and get those guys you can count on their estimates.

Shopping for the lowest bid may get the best price but I almost guarantee it won’t get you the best job.  Each job must stand on its own and the value (price vs. quality vs. speed vs....) must be determined to make sure your goals and expectations are met.

Frank Wong · Answer

Hi Eddie,

I think most contractors know they will be bidding against other contractors for jobs.  I would have the appointments spaced out.  This way I can explain everything clearly to each person and also out of respect.  It's just the right thing to do.

I wouldn't want to go into a listing appointment expecting there to be another agent sitting at the table and we both have to give our pitch.

Zack S. · Answer

@Eddie Gonnella I recommend telling them you’re looking for a bid on the project. It’s good to be upfront that it’s being bid out to multiple subs.

Eddie Gonnella · Answer

@Dion McNeeley That was how I approached it too from the business perspective, but didn't know if any contractors would disagree. I'm always one to shop around for everything too. I just checked out that Thumbtack app. Very cool! I'm definitely going to use it. Thanks for that tip!

Dion McNeeley · Answer

Hi @Eddie Gonnella,

This is a good question. There are several schools of thought but here is how I handle this.

They are running a business. It is nice to be friendly but they know you are in business as well. I not only get three estimates but I make sure all contractors know there are two other estimates coming in. I let them know I watch the cash side but also the time it takes and the quality of work. I like the app Thumbtack for finding contractors for estimates.

If you lose a contractor because they do not want competition then I think that you may not want that contractor in the first place. You are not their only customer and a contractor knows you do not get all jobs.

I do the same thing when shopping for a car. I check no less than 5 dealerships and make sure they all know I am shopping around. This saved me 13k on my last car purchase. A dealer from 60 miles away brought the car to me and had the reduced rate just to the dealers closer to me wouldn't get a sale.

Good luck.

Thanks.

Frowned upon to have 2 of the same type sub-contractors on site?

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