Understanding House Cleaning Quotes vs Estimates
When hiring a house cleaning professional, you'll encounter two types of pricing documents: quotes and estimates. Understanding the difference can save you thousands and protect you legally under Consumer Protection Act.
The Key Differences
Quote (Fixed Price)
- Legally binding price commitment
- Protected under Consumer Protection Act
- Changes require a formal Change Order
- Contractor absorbs cost overruns
Estimate (Approximate)
- Non-binding price indication
- Can vary by 10-15% or more
- Final cost determined after work
- You absorb unexpected costs
Your Legal Protection in CA
Under Consumer Protection Act, a written quote is generally considered a binding offer. Once you accept it, the contractor cannot increase the price without your written agreement through a Change Order. The Consumer Protection Ontario / provincial equivalents can help if a contractor tries to charge more than the quoted amount.
Always ensure your quote includes the contractor's Business Number and clearly states whether HST is included in the price.
Local Insight for CA
In Canada, home renovation contracts over $50 in Ontario require a written agreement under the Consumer Protection Act. You have a 10-day cooling-off period for door-to-door sales. Always check WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) coverage to avoid liability for worker injuries on your property.
Already Have a Quote?
Upload your house cleaning quote for instant AI-powered analysis. We'll identify red flags, compare against market rates, and tell you if you're getting a fair deal.