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just a question about estimates
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Posted by msblaster (My Page) on Wed, Nov 4, 09 at 23:55
| I recently started helping with our family property management company. I am still learning as I go. Recently I had a situation where I had to get some estimates through local electricians. The first estimate seemed extremely high($3000) so I got a second estimate($1500). The second estimate seemed much closer to what we are expecting however I was given a recommendation by a business friend. I called the contractor and he quoted me at $1100. It was obvious to our family because of the recommendation and the lower estimate we should choose the third contractor. I had explained to the second contractor with the $1500 estimate that I would contact him we had made our decision. I contacted immediately so that he did not a slot open for us.The contractor was notably upset that we did not choose him and started asking me questions. He asked what the lowest quote was, and what work the contractor would be including. Because this electrician is new to our area and trying to gain clientele, I explained that the quote was for $1100 and included all of the services he was offering(panel change, service upgrade, miscellaneous wiring). The contractor then threatened me with court stating that I had used his estimates to get a better estimate. I had not signed a contract or any sort of agreement with his contractor, so I do not believe he can do anything. I do understand that when dealing with estimates there is a certain etiquette, and until we had made a decision on who to go with,I did not divulge any information. Did I do anything wrong in this situation?
Thank you! |
Follow-Up Postings:
RE: just a question about estimates
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| You did what most recomment... get three estimates. |
RE: just a question about estimates
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| The thing you did "wrong" was your attempt to help the second contractor. I suggest you help him "gain clietele" at every opportunity by relating your story, most people won't want to be threatened with a court appearance every time he loses a bid. You probably realize now that the best way to break the news to non-winning bidders is to simply say you have decided to pass on their bid. Leave it up to them to figure out why. |
RE: just a question about estimates
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Threatened you with court based on....what??? Unless you signed a confidentiality agreement with him and reneged, tell him to take a hike.
In the future, just don't call back on rejected proposals. They don't hold slots open for anyone until the proposal is accepted (no matter what they say.) |
RE: just a question about estimates
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| Thanks, I was just curious, as to if I handled the situation properly. Should have known something was up when he gave me a sob story about his 3 year old daughter or something. LOL I was actually getting really annoyed, and that is why i called back also, he had called me about 10 times in 1 day! a little too needy for my taste |
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