How to Bid on Contracting Jobs
You have the knowledge, the tools and years of experience. Now you are ready to go out on your own. Your prospective client has called you in to check out the job and place a bid. You can learn this skill here with this step-by-step guide about bidding on construction projects.
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Instructions
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1
Talk to your client to get all of the specifications for the complete project. Give your client options for each step and be aware of current prices. Record these specs onto your bid sheet.
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2
Use your tape measure to get exact dimensions for each part of the job. Record these figures onto your bid sheet.
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3
Call or go to your supplier and check exact prices and availability. Record these figures onto your bid sheet.
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4
Use the specs and figures on your bid sheet to calculate the exact amount of materials you will need and their cost.
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5
Use your experience to estimate the time that the project will take to complete.
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Multiply the materials cost by 1 1/2 (e.g. $100 worth of materials = $150) to get the labor price. Add these two numbers together to get the total bid price.
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Turn in your total bid price and your time estimate to your client with a copy of your notes on the bid sheet.
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Tips & Warnings
You must be experienced in the trade for the project you are trying to bid on.
A bid is an offer for a contract and may be legally binding in your location. Be sure to bid the job for a price that you are willing to stick with. Your business and personal reputation depend upon your accuracy and integrity. Contractors are required to be licensed, insured and bonded. Be sure to check with your state and local government and adhere to their regulations.
