Had almost the same thing happen with a fence install last year. Their crew rescheduled twice, then when they finally showed up, the price had jumped by $1,500. I pushed back since the delay was on them, and after some back and forth, they agreed to honor the original quote. Definitely learned to get every detail in writing and ask for a clear timeline. If they can’t explain the increase, that’s a red flag for me too.
That’s wild—seen similar stuff in roofing, especially when material prices spike. We usually put a 30-day window on quotes, but if delays are on our end, I feel like it’s only fair to stick to the original price. Curious if folks here have run into issues when supply costs jump mid-project? Sometimes it gets tricky when suppliers change prices overnight...
Had this happen last year when we replaced our gutters—quote was good for 30 days, but then the supplier hiked prices right before install. Contractor stuck to the original price since the delay was on their end. Felt fair to me, but I get nervous about these sudden jumps... makes you wonder if you should lock things in faster or just expect surprises.
Had this happen last year when we replaced our gutters—quote was good for 30 days, but then the supplier hiked prices right before install.
I get the nerves around price jumps—been burned by that before. What’s worked for me is making sure the quote spells out exactly how long it’s valid and what happens if there’s a delay. If the contractor causes the holdup, like you said, they should eat the difference. But if I’m dragging my feet, I expect to pay the new rate. I always ask for everything in writing, even if it feels awkward. It’s saved me a few headaches over the years.
What’s worked for me is making sure the quote spells out exactly how long it’s valid and what happens if there’s a delay.
Totally agree on getting it in writing, even if it feels a bit awkward. I’ve had a contractor try to wiggle out of a quoted price after a delay they caused—having the terms spelled out saved me. If the job gets pushed because of them, they should honor the original number. If I’m the holdup, fair’s fair, I pay the new rate. Just wish more companies were upfront about this from the start.
