About Our Estimate & The Estimating Process
Builder Boy’s estimate contains a general scope of what the work for your remodel will entailed. Each item discussed in the appointment will be given a written description in the estimate.
It is important for Builder Boy to have a transparent relationship with the homeowners and a way to achieve that is by having what steps we will take, concerning the remodel, to finish the project.
It is from the estimate that we take into account how long the project will take and how much it will cost. Labor and material cost are also taken from the amount of remodeling we are doing in each project. Each estimate is custom made for the project we are working on.
Material and Labor Cost
Material Cost
Since we have close relationships with our vendors and our purchasing history, we are able to purchase materials at a discounted price. In the event our clients wish to provide the materials themselves, we offer them the opportunity to purchase the material directly through our vendor account, making it easier to make purchasing decisions.
Labor Cost
Every project is different and labor cost is no different. The price of each job is ultimately based on the scope of work. A detailed and itemized statement will be provided to you before a contract is signed.
Other Expenses
Sometimes unexpected costs are due to things that could not be seen on the surface during the original inspection. Often times, we may uncover other problems which require your attention and could not be seen until we begin our work.
Although we do our best to offer alternatives and other solutions to keep the costs to a minimum, we recommend planning ahead of time by setting aside an emergency fund to quickly resolve these issues and keep your project from delays due to finances.
Timeline
Estimated completion times are under no circumstances guaranteed as we do not have control over unforeseen obstacles, inclement weather or vendor delivery schedules.
However, to give you a better idea of what an average job will take, we normally will offer you a theoretical timeline for your project. You should expect delays within reason. If ever a delay should occur during your project, we will immediately let you know and begin the change order process to get back on schedule.
Payment Terms
Initially, a small deposit will be needed to secure the work and schedule. It is illegal to ask for or accept a down payment of more than 10 percent of the total home improvement contract price or $1,000, whichever is less. Many consumer victims who file complaints with the CSLB tell investigators they were unaware that there is a legal limit for down payments. Many unlicensed operators also are not familiar with this aspect of California contracting law, which should serve as a red flag for homeowners. If someone asks for a large amount of money up front, the person might not have a license or the necessary project skills.
Many times, unlicensed operators take a homeowner’s down payment and never start the project. At Builder Boy, we take our work seriously and abide by all laws set forth by the CSLB. At Builder Boy, transparency is key. We include a copy of your payment schedule. It can be found in your copy of your contract. Additionally, a copy of your original signed estimate will serve as additional documentation to your contract. All payments must be received prior to each phase of work is to begin and submitted in the form of a cashier’s check or money order. We accept all major credit cards, however, a small processing fee may apply.
