Pricing Transparency
The Science of Transparency
What the pricing transparency score on scored listings means, and how to protect yourself from surprise costs when you get quotes.
Transparency Tier System
The score is a guide based on what a contractor shares about pricing. It is not a price promise.
Premium Tier
Transparency Score90-100%
What to look for:
- Itemized pricing breakdown
- Material cost transparency
- Labor hour estimates
- Written project timeline
- Change order protocols
Good Tier
Transparency Score60-89%
What to look for:
- Project cost ranges
- Basic material estimates
- Timeline estimates
- Standard change policies
Basic Tier
Transparency Score40-59%
What to look for:
- Total project estimates
- General timeline ranges
- Basic project scope
How to Avoid Quote Surprises
Three steps that help keep your final cost close to your quote
What You Can Do
1. Detailed Quote
Ask each contractor for an itemized estimate with material and labor broken out
2. Change Tracking
Agree any change of scope in writing, with its price, before the work starts
3. Compare
Get more than one quote and compare what each one includes, not just the total
Experience Transparent Contracting
Browse local contractors and compare them before you ask for a quote