Three quotes only help if they're for the same job
Why the lowest number is often the one that left something out, and how to make quotes comparable.
Getting three quotes is good advice. It only works if all three describe the same job.
Contractors don't price a project the same way. One includes tearing out the old fence and hauling it away. One assumes you'll do that yourself. One prices a cheaper grade of material and doesn't say so. Put those three numbers side by side and the lowest one usually wins, even when it is the most expensive once the missing pieces are added back.
Write the scope once
Before you call anyone, write down what you want in plain words. It can be half a page:
- What gets built, replaced or repaired, with rough measurements
- The material you want, or the two options you're choosing between
- What happens to the old material: tear-out and haul-away
- Who pulls the permit, if your town requires one
- Cleanup at the end
Hand the same page to every contractor and ask each one to price exactly that. If someone suggests a change, good: ask them to price your version and theirs.
Compare line by line
When the quotes come back, don't look at the total first. Check that each one covers the same materials, the same measurements and the same extras. Where one is silent, ask. "Is haul-away included?" is a fair question, and the answer belongs in writing.
Only then compare the totals. A big gap between similar quotes is worth a phone call. Sometimes the low bidder missed something. Sometimes the high bidder is busy and priced the job to not get it.
The cheapest quote isn't the goal
The goal is the best price for the job you actually want, from someone who will show up and finish it. Three comparable quotes tell you what that job costs in your area. One quote only tells you what one company would like to charge.