What is the difference between an estimate & a contract?

In which state did you work out of?  We live in Ohio
and have a question about the difference between an
estimate and a contract.  We already had a kitchen
remodel done and the contractor is attempting to gouge
us for $10,000 more without disclosing any of the work
he did beforehand, let alone the cost.  He is claiming
that we only had an estimate, not a contract.  We both
signed and dated the estimate and it actually says
that anything extra must be put in writing and signed
by both parties.

We are interested in remodeling a bathroom and don't
want the same thing to happen again, although we will
go with another contractor.  Will your book give us
this insight?  We're looking for a LOT of advice!

Fran from Ohio


Fran,
My business was in New York State but my answer would be the
same whether I was in New York or Ohio.
First, let me emphasize that I am not an attorney, & I may be
mistaken, but I believe that when you both signed that estimate
it became a valid contract. I would not pay a dime more than
you bargained for in the signed estimate. The estimate
probably (should have) detailed the work to be done at a stated
price. If there is no formal contract then I believe you should be
able to rely on those details in the estimate. The contractor
would have a tough time in court proving otherwise.
When you go to remodel your bath be sure to have a valid
contract that details exactly what is going to be done by the
contractor (remodel details) & exactly what is going to be done
by you (Pay money)
My book "Confessions of a Home Remodeling Contractor"
covers contracts & a whole lot more about buying home
remodeling. I guarantee you will get a whole lot more than $29
worth of good buying advice.

Regards,
Bill Harbrecht