Set up one worksheet before reading the total
Put the same rows down the left side of a worksheet before reviewing any written proposal. Use one column for the work you want and one for each proposal received. A single proposal still benefits from this check because blank, excluded and allowance-based items become visible before you sign.
Align the room boundaries
Mark what remains, what is removed and where new work stops. Include protection, demolition, disposal, framing or subfloor repair assumptions, painting limits and cleanup. If one proposal covers only the shower while another covers the room, label them as different products before comparing price.
For an older El Paso property, record the existing wall construction and whether paid work may disturb painted surfaces in pre-1978 housing. That makes the demolition assumptions and lead-safe responsibilities visible in the comparison.
Align the shower or tub assembly
Ask each proposal to name the base, drain, backing surface, waterproofing, seams, penetrations, transitions, finish and test responsibility. Tiled-shower water-management guidance explains why tile and grout do not replace the water-management description. For panels or proprietary systems, ask for component names and written installation or warranty documents.
Align plumbing, power and exhaust
List every moved or replaced fixture, valve, drain, outlet, light, control and fan. Record the fan’s duct route and outdoor termination. Record the Texas electrical contractor and the Responsible Master Plumber, the licensed master plumber responsible for the plumbing company’s work, using the Texas electrical program and State plumbing consumer guidance to verify the businesses. Confirm who handles permits and inspections for the property jurisdiction.
Align products and allowances
For each item, record exact model or allowance, quantity, tax, delivery, accessories and installation. Note who orders, verifies, receives and returns it. A lower allowance can make the total look smaller without changing labor or quality.
Align schedule assumptions
Ask when the stated duration begins, which products must be ready, whether permit review is included and which events can extend the job. Record bathroom access during the work and the process for a delayed or damaged product.
Align payment and change rules
Payments should have clear amounts and triggers. The contract should explain the deposit, progress stages, any amount held back until agreed corrections are complete and final payment. Changes should require a written description, price and time effect before additional work proceeds except for immediate safety action.
Align completion and final payment
Define when the room can be used, when punch-list corrections are complete and which inspection records, manuals, product records and written warranties must be supplied. Clarify who returns for a correction and tie final payment to the agreed completion evidence.
Compare business identity and responsibility
Make sure the proposal names the legal business, contact, insurer information supplied by the provider and applicable trade businesses. Verify licenses in the State databases rather than trusting a badge. Ask who supervises the site and who has authority to approve a change.
Compare the contract documents
A complete agreement can include proposal, drawings, product schedule, allowances, payment plan, change procedure and written warranty terms. Check which document controls if two pages conflict. Do not rely on text messages to replace a missing specification.
Compare risk allocation
Look for concealed-condition language, owner-supplied product risk, delay terms, damage responsibility and dispute procedure. A proposal can be detailed about finishes yet silent about the conditions most likely to move cost.
Use a simple status key
| Status | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Included | clearly described and priced | confirm model and responsibility |
| Excluded | expressly outside the work | budget or assign separately |
| Allowance | placeholder amount | select product and recalculate |
| Unknown | not addressed | ask before signing |
When the checklist matches the project you want, use Get a Quote to send one project description. Keep the checklist for the provider’s written response.
Frequently asked questions
How many proposals should I compare?
There is no universally correct number. Focus on complete, comparable written scope and provider fit.
Is the lowest proposal the best value?
Not if it excludes preparation, trade work, products, permits or final records included elsewhere.
Where is the actual quote request form?
Use the form on the Get a Quote page. This page is the checklist to use before accepting a proposal.