Proposal comparison worksheet
| Line item | Proposal 1 | Proposal 2 | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Based on which inspection report and date | |||
| Materials included, by location | |||
| Quantities, matching the report | |||
| Materials excluded | |||
| Containment description | |||
| Negative air and HEPA filtration | |||
| Decontamination setup | |||
| CDPHE permit or notification, and who files | |||
| Contractor certification number | |||
| Named certified supervisor | |||
| Disposal facility and paperwork | |||
| Clearance: who performs it | |||
| Who pays if clearance fails | |||
| Schedule and duration | |||
| Restoration of the area after removal |
When the proposals do not line up
- IfOne proposal lists far smaller quantitiesThenAsk whether it excludes materials or relies on a different report. Smaller quantities can mean a narrower job, not a better price.
- IfOne includes clearance and the other does notThenAdd the cost and coordination of independent clearance to the second proposal before comparing.
- IfOne proposal says nothing about permitsThenAsk directly whether the quantities trigger a CDPHE permit or notification.
- IfOne proposal is a single line with a totalThenRequest a written scope with the items above. A bid that cannot be compared should not be accepted.
- IfRestoration is included in one but not the otherThenDecide whether you want the remover to rebuild, or prefer a separate contractor, and compare accordingly.
Follow-up questions for every bidder
- Did you visit the site, or price from the report alone?
- What will you do if you find additional suspect material once work starts?
- How will you protect areas outside containment, including HVAC?
- How many days will containment be up, and when can occupants return?
- What documents will I receive at the end of the job?
Common questions
How many proposals should I collect?
Two or three is common for residential work. More than that rarely adds clarity unless the first few disagree sharply about scope. What matters most is that each bidder prices the same inspection report.
Should the abatement contractor also rebuild the area?
Some do, and it can simplify scheduling. Others leave rebuilding to a general contractor. Either way, the proposal should say clearly where abatement ends and restoration begins, so nothing falls between the two contracts.
What if a bidder wants to re-inspect before pricing?
That can be a good sign if they want to confirm quantities or check areas the report could not reach. Ask whether their findings will be shared with you in writing, and whether they are certified to inspect, not only to abate.
Can I negotiate scope after comparing?
Yes. If one proposal includes something you do not need, or omits something another included, ask each bidder to revise so the documents match. Then compare again before signing.
General information for the Denver area, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.