Make Trades Great Again

Bid Work vs. Time and Material

Jul 15, 2025
Discover the complexities of managing plumbing projects as experts share insights on navigating permits and customer expectations. Hear fascinating anecdotes about the challenges of renovating older buildings and the necessity of clear communication. The pros and cons of time-and-material pricing versus bidding are explored, highlighting the need for effective planning. Learn how community feedback can enrich project management and why flexibility is crucial for success in the ever-evolving construction landscape.
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ANECDOTE

Challenging Old Building Remodel

  • Andy Mickelson shared a commercial kitchen remodel in a 130-year-old building with lots of surprises and permit challenges.
  • The project took months with extensive unforeseen plumbing and structural issues, far beyond the initial scope.
ANECDOTE

Removing Dead Legs for Code

  • Andy described cutting out 100-year-old galvanized pipes and removing dead legs to meet current plumbing code.
  • The inspector required removing capped-off pipes as they are no longer allowed by code.
INSIGHT

Time & Material Beats Risky Bids

  • Time and material pricing often suits open-ended or complex projects better than fixed bids.
  • Bidding on such jobs can lead to significant losses if the scope expands unexpectedly.
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