Sample № 03 — plumbing estimate review
A contractor quote, audited line by line.
A worked example. Copy the prompt, paste it into the AI tool you use, and follow what it asks back.
“I have a plumbing estimate. What's missing or vague?”
Workflow · Estimate Review
What the AI will produce
- Per-category labels: clear / vague / missing / red flag.
- A specific list of vague language to clarify (e.g. "as needed," "customer's choice," "unforeseen conditions").
- Missing categories the contract should address — permit, lien waiver, change-order process, warranty terms.
- Red flag indicators — cash-only payment, large up-front deposit, no written contract, refusal to provide license number.
- Numbered questions to ask the contractor before signing.
- Questions to verify with the local building department.
Example interaction
What the AI flags
“Replace water heater” is vague — needs fuel type, capacity, brand, model, energy factor. “Permit included” is missinga sub-clause on who schedules and meets the inspection. “Warranty: as per manufacturer” is a red flag — the contractor should also warranty their installation work for at least 1 year. A demand for 50% deposit is a red flag — industry standard is 10-25% with progress payments.
What you ask back
Brand and model of the proposed unit? Is the existing T&P valve being replaced? Pan + drain line included? Earthquake straps if required by local code? Sediment trap on gas line? Who pulls the permit and who is there for the inspection? Total duration including code-required components?