MMoney Problem Solver™
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Sample caseFictional example written to demonstrate the format. Not advice about a real situation, and not one of your problems.
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HVAC system replacement

Waiting for information$7,200 under review

Contractor proposes a full system replacement after a no-cool call. The estimate is a single line item with a $3,000 deposit.

Problem-Solving Engine

Step 2 of 7

Verify — What still needs confirming?

  1. Identify — complete
  2. Verify — current
  3. Understand
  4. Compare
  5. Protect
  6. Act
  7. Track

The bottom line

The scope on this estimate is too thin to sign. Without model numbers, permit responsibility and a warranty in writing, you cannot compare it against anyone else's price.

2

Red flags

2

Options

1/3

Steps done

Part 1

Your action plan

  1. Do this first

    Email the contractor asking for model numbers and permit responsibility

    Completed

  2. Then do this

    Book one comparison estimate with the same written specification

    Not yet done

  3. Before paying, verify this

    Do not pay a deposit until the warranty terms are in writing

    Not yet done

Part 2

Red flags and risks

  • A deposit above 40% of the total before any work begins.
  • No model numbers, which makes competing quotes impossible to compare.

Part 3

What we know

  • The estimate is $7,200 for a full replacement.
  • A $3,000 deposit is requested up front.

Part 4

Still needs verifying

  • Exact equipment make, model and efficiency rating.
  • Who pulls and pays for the permit.
  • Whether old equipment removal and disposal is included.
  • Labour warranty length, separate from the manufacturer's parts warranty.

Part 5

Your options, side by side

Option A

Request a fully itemised revision of this estimate

  • Costs nothing
  • Makes the quote comparable
  • Delays the work by a few days

Option B

Get a second estimate using the same specification

  • Shows whether the price is in range
  • Often surfaces a repair-only option
  • Requires scheduling another visit

Part 6

Questions to ask

  1. 1.Which exact models are you installing, and what is the efficiency rating?
  2. 2.Is the permit included, and who schedules the inspection?
  3. 3.What is the labour warranty, in years, in writing?
  4. 4.Can the deposit be reduced or tied to equipment delivery?

What the customer told us

Show
Proposed work
Full furnace and condenser replacement
Estimate total
$7,200
Deposit requested
$3,000
Permit responsibility
Not stated
Equipment model numbers
Not listed

Documents (example)

  • Contractor estimate

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