When having common home repairs done, get several estimates and a list of references from the potential contractors before making a decision.
Whenever possible, purchase your own supplies. Some contractors will refuse to use materials purchased by the customer, for fear the supplies are not top quality. Many contractors raise the price of supplies by 10-20% or more to cover their time and trouble. Often you can call a home improvements store and have the supplies delivered directly to your home, usually at no additional charge. In some instances, there is a mileage charge, so check with the store before placing your order. If you're unsure of exactly what you will need, have the contractor write a list of all materials connected to the job. Or, call the home improvement store and ask what for a list of all supplies needed. In the case of a job that requires you to view the materials first, such as new carpeting, go to the store and make your selections, then arrange for the store to deliver the carpet and any installation supplies to your home, or deliver the items yourself if you have the means.
Have an idea in mind of what it should cost to have a particular job completed. There is a big price difference if the contractor will be supplying the materials. Here is a general list of average prices per job, including materials:
Building a deck:
$12-$20 per square foot
Electrical:
Install new circuit breaker panel: $500-$700
Add conventional receptacle: $75-$150
Upgrade electrical service: $1200-$2000
Heating/Air Conditioning:
Install air-forced furnace: $1700-$3500
Install thermostat: $100-$300
Clean ductwork: $250-$500
Install electric baseboard heaters: $150 each
Install central heat and air: $8000+
Plumbing: Replace commode: $300-$400
Replace sink: $200-$300
Replace Bathtub: $800-$1200
Retile around tub: $700-$1000
Carpentry:
Refinish hardwood floors: $2.00/sq.ft.
Replace a window: $100+
Paint interior: $3500+
Roofing:
Shingle over existing shingles: $2/sq.ft.
Strip and roof with cedar shingles: $6/sq.ft.
Rebuild crumbling chimney: $150/lin.ft.
Reflash skylight: $300-$500
Soffits:
Install aluminum soffits: $6-$12/lin.ft.
Additionals:
Rebuild basement stairwell: $3500+
Build wooden retaining wall: $20-$40/sq.ft.
Build concrete retaining wall: $30-$40/sq.ft.
Install basement support beam: $200
Repair crack in concrete foundation: $500-$800
Carpet installation: $3-$5/sq.ft.
Install hardwood flooring: $4-$8/lin.ft.
Generally, it's a good practice to get between three and five estimates on the intended project to get an idea of what is normally charged in your area for that particular type of job. If you want to save money, you should probably choose the independent contractor, but if you want the work done pronto, and you don't mind paying the maximum price, the large company is likely your best bet.
