### Red Flags in Contractor Quotes: What to Avoid

Certain characteristics in contractor quotes should immediately raise red flags and prompt you to either request clarification or eliminate that contractor from consideration entirely. Recognizing these warning signs can save you thousands of dollars and months of frustration.

Door-to-door solicitation quotes are among the most dangerous. Contractors who show up unannounced claiming they noticed problems with your roof, driveway, or siding are almost always running scams. Their quotes are typically verbal or written on generic forms, and they often create artificial urgency by claiming they have leftover materials from another job or that they're offering a one-time discount. Legitimate contractors are too busy with referral business to need door-to-door solicitation.

Quotes that require large upfront payments are major red flags. While some deposits are normal for custom work or special orders, any contractor demanding 50% or more upfront is likely either financially unstable or planning to take your money and run. In many states, it's illegal for contractors to demand more than 10% down payment or $1,000, whichever is less.

Extremely low bids compared to other quotes often indicate corner-cutting, use of inferior materials, or plans to add charges later. If one quote is significantly lower than others, ask detailed questions about why. Sometimes legitimate contractors can offer lower prices due to better supplier relationships or efficiency, but more often, low bidders are cutting corners somewhere.

Verbal quotes or quotes lacking detail should be avoided entirely. Professional contractors put everything in writing because they understand that clear communication prevents disputes. A quote that simply states "roof repair - $5,000" without specifying materials, methods, or scope is practically worthless for comparison purposes.

High-pressure tactics in quotes, such as "limited time offers" or claims that prices will increase dramatically if you don't sign immediately, are classic scam indicators. Legitimate contractors are willing to give you time to consider their proposal and compare it with others.

Quotes from unlicensed contractors are risky even if they seem otherwise professional. Licensing requirements exist to protect consumers, and unlicensed contractors cannot pull permits, may not carry proper insurance, and often lack the skills and knowledge necessary for quality work.

Be wary of quotes that don't address permits or inspections when they're clearly required. This suggests the contractor either doesn't understand local regulations or plans to skip required steps, either of which can cause serious problems later.

Quotes with vague warranty terms or no warranty information should be questioned. Professional contractors stand behind their work and are happy to specify exactly what they guarantee and for how long.

Finally, quotes from contractors who cannot provide local references or proof of insurance should be rejected. These are basic requirements that every legitimate contractor should be able to fulfill immediately.