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Contractor Comparison Worksheet

Put three bids side by side on identical terms: verification, scope, materials, warranty, price, and gut check — the fair fight the door-knock is designed to prevent.

Get at least two bids — three is better — and compare them on identical terms. A bid that resists this worksheet ("we can’t itemize," "price is only good today") has answered your question. Fill one column per contractor.

Verification

Printable log — columns: Check, Contractor A, Contractor B, Contractor C.

Verification rows (mark ✓/✗ per contractor above)

License verified on state/city site (not just a number on a card)
GL + workers’ comp certificates received from the insurer
Physical local address, verified via business registration
In business locally 3+ years
References from 1+ year-old local jobs — called them
Manufacturer certification verified on manufacturer site

The bid (compare line by line)

Itemized scope in writing (tear-off, decking, underlayment, ice & water, vents, flashing)
Exact shingle brand and line named
Total price — and what triggers a change order
Payment schedule (red flag: large cash deposit)
Start window and estimated duration
Cleanup and magnetic nail sweep included
Workmanship warranty: years, and what it covers, in writing
Manufacturer warranty they can register for you
Lien waiver on final payment
No assignment-of-benefits clause anywhere in the contract

Gut check (per contractor)

Answered questions without friction? (A / B / C)
Pressured me to sign quickly? (A / B / C)
Would I hire them without insurance money involved? (A / B / C)
Decision & why