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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchCompare contractor quotes only after matching what each one covers: the work and materials, exclusions, total cost, schedule, payment terms, and written promises. Then check each contractor’s credentials and make sure the signed contract reflects the agreed offer. This is general U.S. consumer guidance; licensing, contract rules, deposit limits, and cancellation rights vary by state and locality.
Get written estimates and align the scope
Ask for multiple written estimates that describe the work, materials, expected completion date, and price. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends getting three written estimates, but that is guidance—not a guarantee that three bids will suit every project. If prices differ substantially, ask each contractor to explain why; the lowest figure may reflect a narrower scope or different assumptions.
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Use the same comparison rows for each estimate. This worksheet is a practical way to apply FTC advice, not an official FTC form. Before comparing totals, ask contractors to clarify blanks, allowances, exclusions, and wording that could affect the cost or result.
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| Compare | What to record and clarify |
|---|---|
| Work and materials | List the work included and any named materials or specifications. Identify exclusions and items left as allowances or to be decided later; get agreed details in writing. |
| Price and fees | Record the quoted price and clarify whether relevant costs—such as permits, disposal, or delivery—are included. The FTC specifically calls out full installed cost, including building or electrical permit fees, in its solar guidance; that is solar-specific, not a universal checklist for every project. |
| Schedule | Record estimated start and completion dates. Ask how sequencing and delays are handled. |
| Payment | Write down the deposit, progress payments, and final payment, and what clearly described work triggers each one. |
| Promises, warranties, and repairs | Put promises made in a sales conversation or elsewhere into the signed agreement. Where applicable, compare warranty coverage and duration, ongoing costs, and who handles repairs. |
| Credentials | Check the relevant state or county agency for licensing requirements and verify the contractor’s license where applicable. Ask for proof of insurance, and check recommendations and complaint information. |
For solar projects, the FTC also recommends comparing system brand and size, expected power production, any production guarantee and remedy, equipment and workmanship warranties, ongoing costs, repair responsibilities, and payment or contract terms. Those solar-specific factors should not be treated as standard requirements for unrelated construction work.
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Investigate price gaps before choosing
A large difference between bids may point to different work, materials, fees, or assumptions—not necessarily a better deal. Ask the contractors to explain the gap, then align the written scopes as closely as possible before comparing prices. The FTC’s advice is direct: “Don’t automatically choose the lowest bidder.”
Price is only one part of the decision. Consider the written scope alongside the contractor’s credentials, insurance, recommendations, and complaint history. A low bid does not replace those checks.
Check the contract before signing
Have a written contract in place before work begins, and check that it matches the estimate and other promises you accepted. FTC guidance identifies the contractor’s name, address, phone number, and license number; estimated start and completion dates; the agreed scope; promises about labor and material costs; and a payment schedule as items to review.
- Confirm the listed work, materials, exclusions, and any allowances.
- Make sure the price and payment milestones are clear.
- Write verbal promises into the agreement rather than relying on a conversation.
- Fill every blank before signing, and do not sign a document you have not read or do not understand.
The FTC notes that a written cancellation-right statement may be required when a contract is signed in the home or somewhere other than the seller’s permanent place of business. Whether a cancellation right applies depends on the circumstances; check the rules for your location rather than assuming a universal cancellation period. Contract requirements vary by state.
Set safer payment terms
Do not pay the entire project amount upfront, and do not release the final payment until the work is complete and satisfactory. Deposit limits differ by state, so ask your local consumer agency or check the applicable state and local rules instead of relying on a nationwide percentage.
For disaster repairs, the FTC suggests asking your bank or credit union about a Certificate of Completion arrangement. It can allow staged payments after you approve each stage. That option is specific guidance for disaster-repair situations, not a payment method to assume is available for every project.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Recognize warning signs and know what to do
Be cautious if a contractor pressures you to decide immediately, demands cash or full payment upfront, asks you to obtain required permits, or presents financing paperwork without time for you to read it. Do not sign blank documents, unread financing papers, or anything you do not understand. Verify credentials and get the complete scope, estimate, and contract in writing.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteIf a dispute develops, the FTC advises first trying to resolve it with the contractor. Document conversations in writing and keep copies of correspondence and project documents. If that does not resolve the issue, your state attorney general or local consumer protection office may be able to help. Because licensing, permits, deposit caps, contract disclosures, and cancellation rules are local matters, check the relevant state or county agency for requirements that apply to your project.
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