Why Cheaper Isn't Always Better: What You Should Know Before You Hire the Lowest Bid Contractor

Saving money is simple, particularly on home projects. However, here is what you could be paying for should you hire the cheapest bidder.

Let's get real: Home repairs and renovations aren't inexpensive.

Whether you're doing a kitchen remodel, a basement finish, or just need some drywall repaired, the costs can be all over the place. And it's only human to look at that low bid and think, "Well, this will save us money — why not?"

But this is the reality we've witnessed again and again working in homes along the Front Range and in Boulder County in particular:

Taking the lowest bid can end up costing you more in the end. Let's dissect why that is — and what to look out for.

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1. You Get What You Pay For

• If one bid is much lower than the others, there's a reason for it. That contractor may be:

  
  

• Skipping permits (for which you, the home owner, may be held liable)

  
  

• Employing less expensive materials of inferior quality

  
  

• Skimping on labour, such as employing underqualified individuals, or rushing the job

• Not covered by insurance, which leaves you vulnerable in case something goes wrong

  
  

  What appears to be a deal might be hiding risks or shortcuts that are not immediately apparent.

2. Hidden Fees Mount Up

A low bid doesn't fund all that you actually require — and now you're getting hit with change orders and "unanticipated" expenses.

Ask yourself:

• Is demolition or clean-up covered?

  
  

• Does it include inspections and permits?

  
  

• Do they offer any guarantee on the job?

Always compare what is included, not the bottom line.

3. Affordable Work May Result in Costly Repairs

We've been called in too many times to repair jobs another contractor had "completed" — to discover:

• Sloppy framing that wasn't square

  
  

• Electrical work not compliant with code

  
  

• Flooring or tile laid over substandard surfaces

  
  

• Water damage due to poor sealing or grading

In the end, residents end up paying twice: once for the substandard work, and again to have it fixed.

4. Insurance and Licensing Matter — A Lot

Here in Colorado, the licensing varies from county to county or city to city. Nonetheless, if the contractor is not licensed or insured, you're taking on incredible liability.

• If a worker gets hurt on your property, you could be held responsible.

  
  

• If the work doesn't comply with code, your safety and house value are jeopardized.

  
  

• If you ever need to get the product repaired, there may be no warranty or recourse

Hiring a contractor merely due to the fact that they're less expensive can cost plenty more if anything goes wrong.

5. Reliable Contractors Charge for Reliability

Great contractors aren't cheap, but here's what they deliver that's worth the money:

• Clear communication

  
  

• Proper licensing, insurance, and permits

  
  

• Quality work and materials

  
  

• A team that shows up when they say they are going to

  
  

• A warranty on work

  
  

• Peace of mind

When your house is at stake, that peace of mind is worth the additional couple of hundred dollars.

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What Should You Look for Instead?

While comparing Front Range contractor bids, do not rely on your wallet or your instincts. Inquire:

• Are they licensed in your state?

  
  

• Do they carry liability and worker's compensation insurance?

  
  

• How do they deal with changes or problems?

  
  

• What do past clients say in reviews?

  
  

• Can they give examples of their comparable work?

If the lowest bidder is unable to tick all those boxes — it is worth considering twice.

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Final Thoughts: An Investment in Your Home That Equals a Quality Job

Your house is your greatest asset. Work you undertake today must add to its value and quality of life — not lead to future problems.

So it's good to save money in the short term, but best value is to pay for someone to do it once and get it right.

Looking for a licensed, qualified contractor on the Front Range?

At Alpine Home Repairs, we're fans of straight shooting, honest prices, and doing the job right — no shortcuts, no surprises. From minor repairs to whole house remodels, we treat every project with professionalism and pride.

Alpine Home Repairs