How to Compare Garage Quotes

Start with one version of your project brief: city, candidate footprint, existing site condition, intended use, essential features and options. Put a date and revision number on it. If one provider prices a taller door or assumes an existing slab can stay, that proposal no longer describes the same baseline.

Ask each provider to identify assumptions rather than silently filling gaps. Use the one-page garage project brief as the shared starting point, and keep a copy of every version sent.

Copy the worksheet below and complete one row for every scope item. Use the provider's own wording and mark evidence that is missing. “Not stated” is not the same as included.

The visual below summarizes the same process. Its steps are repeated in text so the worksheet remains useful without the image.

Ask the same factual question wherever proposals are silent or use different assumptions. For example: “Does this line include removal and disposal of the existing structure, and what restoration remains excluded?” Record the written answer beside the original line item instead of relying on memory from a call.

An allowance is not a fixed price. Note the allowance amount, what it is intended to cover, how the final amount will be established and who approves a change. Do not replace a provider's quoted total with your own estimate; request a revised written proposal when the answer affects price or scope.

Compare the latest complete proposal from each provider, not a new total from one against an older total from another. Keep optional work separate from the baseline and note what each option replaces or adds. A lower total may simply leave more work unpriced.

Government of Alberta: hiring a contractor recommends obtaining more than one written estimate and checking qualifications, insurance and WCB information. Its checklist says written estimates should describe the work and materials, dates, itemized costs, total price, guarantees and payment method. Use the current official guidance and request current evidence rather than treating a website claim as verification.

Alberta says special rules apply to a prepaid contracting business when its definition is met. Do not guess whether a proposal is covered: review the current criteria and use Alberta's business-licence search where applicable. Ask who obtains permits and arranges inspections, and consider independent legal advice before signing a contract that is material to you.

Use the garage cost-scope guide to identify site and specification variables. When your brief and open questions are ready, send AB Garage Builders an enquiry. This worksheet does not verify a contractor, convert an estimate into a contract or confirm project availability.