Signing Contract Estimate?
Hello, I am a client doing a full home rebuild with a contractor and we are very close to getting our build permit. It's in Los Angeles County in California.
We asked for an invoice from our contractor to start the debris removal/grading process because they want a check to get started, but they want us to sign the estimate first before they give us an invoice. The estimate shows the scope of work for each item in each category, but the price is lumped into each individual sections, like concrete, debris removal, framing, etc. Is this a standard practice? They are not asking for the full amount of the estimate up front.
Should I wait until getting the permit to cut the first check? Should I ask for a more detailed estimate? Any other tips or advice?