Can a contractor charge you for his estimate if you do not use him to do the work? He said up front he charged 250 for the estimate if not used but would apply that to the contract if used. This is California.
Yes. As long as they tell you up front or give you some documentation stating that.. And you agreed to it.
Not everyone willing to do free quote and really no one should expect that contractor's time is free.
In my 20 years carrier in Toronto Canada I had done 1000s of estimates and all for free. Now thinking to change after Covid-19 and WE ALL contractors should change. As we visit car mechanic, or a cell phone repair, even a computer they charge Diagnistic fees. We drive to customers place with Gas, sometimes pay parking fees, and our time, share our valuable experience and expertise, give them FREE ideas and cost. They take our ideas and call 5 /6 other individuals and select may be the cheapest. So 4 or 5 contractors wasted their time and gas for nothing. Construction Industry we have spoiled customers. We should charge a visit fee and if they decide to hire us we take it as part of deposit.
All contractors should charge for minimum 2 hrs and gas.
Just my opinion. Why we should be FREE??
Most of the contractors offer free estimates, however that might not very fair sometimes. Contractors has to drive all the way to the client places and spent few hours using his time, expertise and experience to provide more information and at the same time some clients are not appreciating that and using these information for their own favor without any care about other person effort which is not really fair. There is no issue at all if the contractor ask for a fee as long as he make it clear from the beginning.
It is a relatively new charge but is justified, provided you are given advance notice. You have to realize that there are costs to his/her time and expenses (gas, wear and tear on the vehicle, and missed opportunity). If you don't hire them, they still have the expense. Just be cautious on how much they charge.
Yes, if you agreed to pay beforehand then you must pay. Providing the quote is a service and he has chosen to charge for it.
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