Start with the scope, not the lowest number.
Give each contractor the same description of your project. Ask what the proposal includes: preparation, materials, labor, protection, cleanup and final walkthrough. A lower total may reflect a different scope. Clarify allowances and exclusions before comparing.
Ask how the project will be managed.
Who is your day-to-day contact? How are decisions recorded? How are schedule changes communicated? Ask for references from similar work and discuss how changes to cost or scope will be approved in writing.
Verify the right credentials.
Massachusetts homeowner guidance recommends checking applicable HIC registration and Construction Supervisor licensing. These are different credentials; requirements depend on the work. Discuss insurance, permit responsibilities, payment milestones and the written contract before work begins.
