Side-by-side comparison
| Item | Proposal A | Proposal B |
|---|---|---|
| Rooms included | ||
| Method for CS powder (HEPA vacuum, wipe) | ||
| Method for capsaicin oil (degreasing) | ||
| HVAC: filter, blower, coil, ducts | ||
| Soft goods: cleaned, replaced or excluded | ||
| Lead or asbestos precautions in older homes | ||
| Final check and re-entry plan | ||
| Exclusions and extra charges | ||
| Who it bills and when |
What to look for
A good scope names each room, describes how each type of surface will be cleaned, and says what will be done with the air system. It should explain what is excluded, such as personal belongings or repairs to broken windows, and how the provider will confirm the work is done.
Be wary of proposals built mainly around ozone or fogging, or that skip the HVAC system after tear gas was used indoors. Equally, a scope that includes full duct replacement with no inspection is worth questioning.
Questions to ask both providers
- What residue do you expect, and how did you decide?
- How will you protect rooms already cleaned while working on others?
- What happens if symptoms return after you finish?
- Do you work directly with insurers, and does your contract assign my benefits?
Filling in the sheet
Ask each provider for a written scope rather than a verbal quote, and fill in the table from the documents. Where a line is blank on one proposal, ask the provider whether it is included or excluded. Often the difference in price comes down to two or three lines, such as HVAC work or soft goods, and once those are equal the proposals look much closer.
Keep the completed sheet with your insurance file. Adjusters sometimes ask why one proposal was chosen over another.
Common questions
Is the cheapest proposal ever the right one?
It can be, if it covers the same rooms, methods and systems. Compare what is included, not just the total.
Should I get more than two proposals?
Two is usually enough for a home. For a large loss or a building, a third can help.
What if a provider will not put the scope in writing?
That is a warning sign. A written scope protects you and gives your insurer something to review.
Can I ask my insurer to review the proposals?
Yes. Adjusters often comment on whether a scope is reasonable for the loss.
General information for Berkeley, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.