Had a similar run-in last year when I was getting quotes for a heat pump. The guy quoted me, then two weeks later tried to tack on an extra $600, blaming “unexpected copper prices.” I told him my wallet was also experiencing market volatility... didn’t go over well. Ever since, I make sure the contract spells out the price is good for at least 30 days. If they can’t do that, I figure they’re just testing the waters to see how much I’ll swallow.
I feel you on the “unexpected copper prices” routine. Had a plumber try to pull the same move on me with a water heater install—suddenly, the price jumped because “supply chain issues.” I told him my patience was also experiencing supply chain issues... didn’t get a laugh either.
Here’s my go-to process now:
1. Get everything in writing, and I mean everything. If they say the quote is good for 30 days, I make them put it right on the estimate.
2. If they start getting cagey about honoring it, that’s usually my cue to move on. There are too many folks out there willing to play fair.
3. I always ask if there are any materials that might fluctuate wildly in price, just so I’m not blindsided.
Honestly, your approach makes sense. Contractors who won’t lock in a price for at least a couple weeks are probably hoping you’ll just roll with whatever number they throw out next. Not saying every single one is shady, but…well, you know how it goes.
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve actually seen the other side of this too. When I was getting my HVAC replaced last year, the contractor was upfront that copper prices were bouncing all over the place. He gave me a quote that was only good for 7 days, and honestly, I didn’t blame him. I checked the price of copper pipe myself and it really was nuts. I’d rather have someone be honest about it than bake in a huge “just in case” markup. Sometimes the short window is just them trying not to get burned, too.
That reminds me of when I was getting quotes for a green roof install last spring. The contractor said the same thing—materials like membrane and insulation were all over the place price-wise. He gave me a 10-day window, which felt short, but after checking supply prices myself, I got it.
I agree with that. I’d rather know the real deal up front, even if it means making a decision a bit faster than I’d like. It’s tough for both sides when prices are unpredictable.“I’d rather have someone be honest about it than bake in a huge ‘just in case’ markup.”
I get wanting honesty, but sometimes those short quote windows feel like pressure tactics, even if prices are jumping around. Wouldn’t a middle ground work—like a base price that’s good for 30 days, with a clause for big material hikes? I’d feel less rushed that way.
