How much should I pay for an estimate?

Question

We asked my nephew to give us a quote for roofing and siding. We told him we just wanted him as a consultant because he lives too far away and we don't like to do business with family, and that we just wanted an honest appraisal.

About 2 weeks after we asked, he said he had other rfq's  in town so he could stop by and do ours too. He worked for an hour. He inspected our roof. (Flat roof, you have to climb up through the ceiling) But refused to take any money. I feel like I should pay for his consulting services, especially since we have no intention of hiring him. I want to give him $50.00. 

Please don't answer unless you are a homeowner, contractor or handyman. If you're not one of those, you can get reported for "no answer". 
.

damffool · Accepted Answer

Most contractors give estimates for free.  However since he is family and worked for an hour, $50 is reasonable.  I would suggest a gift card from a nice restaurant as a personal touch.

Louis C · Answer

I'm a retired contractor I charged nothing for estimates. But I gave an estimate to my aunt  and she gave me a nice dinner for my estimate.But I did the job for free she paid for material but that was me I always help out family.

brucenma2000 · Answer

All my estimates are free, and most companies are the same.  If you want to do something for him offer to take him out for a nice dinner.

loverboy408us · Answer

well most estimates are free. but giving him $50 would be a nice surprise

rfsleo8.1866 · Answer

i work on mowers , i never charged for a estimate , because if you sent to me , iam happy to try to tell you how much it cost, but very gratefull to you for bring it to me to work on , don't pay him at all for that estimate thats [ BS] .

Scott M · Answer

some of the people I work for charge $85.00
but that amount is applied to the job if they go with us.

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How much should I pay for an estimate?

6 Answers