Compare ADU builder bids fairly

Ask every bidder for the same breakdown

• Design and engineering; permits and impact fees; demolition; excavation; utilities; structure; finishes; landscaping; cleanup.
• Identify each allowance, what quantity it covers, the assumed unit price and what happens if the actual price changes.
• Separate fixed prices, allowances, optional work and explicit exclusions.

Check delivery responsibilities

• Who obtains permits, arranges inspections and coordinates utility providers?
• Who carries insurance, supervises trades and provides warranty service? Verify the contractor’s current license through Utah DOPL.
• What is the payment schedule, and which completed milestone supports each payment?

Document a change before work begins

• Record the requested change, reason, drawings affected and who requested it.
• Require the added or credited cost and calendar impact in writing.
• Have both parties approve the change and keep a running log of the revised contract total.

Normalize your bids

Enter known omitted work as additions. Blank amounts remain unknown. Totals are only comparable after you reconcile scope.