How many contractor estimates should you get?

For a planned project, three written estimates can be a useful starting target. The purpose is to understand your options and the work being proposed, not to collect prices indefinitely.

Why more than one helps

The Federal Trade Commission’s home-repair guidance recommends getting three written estimates. Multiple proposals can reveal differences in scope, assumptions, and the way a company approaches your project.

For California homeowners, the Contractors State License Board similarly recommends at least three written bids based on identical plans, specifications, and scope.

Make each estimate worth getting

Prepare a short project description before contacting companies. Explain the problem, the work you are considering, the location, and any important timing constraints. Share the same information with each company.

Ask in advance whether the estimate is free, whether it includes a site visit, and what you will receive. A short price indication and a detailed project proposal serve different purposes.

Stop counting and start comparing

When you receive the estimates, mark each major difference. Is one company proposing repair while another recommends replacement? Is a material choice fixed in one proposal and undecided in another? Does one include work the others exclude?

Those differences may be reasonable. Ask for an explanation and decide whether you want the proposals revised around the same scope.

Know when another conversation helps

An additional estimate may be useful if the existing proposals leave a major question unanswered. Another conversation with a current bidder may be more useful if you simply need clarification.

There is no universal number that guarantees a good outcome. Urgency, project complexity, and local availability affect your options. Aim for enough information to explain why your selected company and proposal fit the work you need.