Contract gotchas for restoration shop

[eclectix]

How could I guard against gotchas in contracting with a shop for restoration?

Three things I worry about

Time overruns

Cost overruns

Bad parts / paint

Bad repair work

How to safeguard against these and more in a contract?

[cep62]

Time overruns

Plan on it.

Cost overruns

Plan on it.

Bad parts / paint

Bad repair work

Get references and look at their work, and stay involved with the project.
stop by every few weeks and bring some snacks to treat them , become their friend.

Usually restoring is hard to quote because of hidden damage that you just can't see until you get involved.
Unless you see it on tv and they throw out some ridicules price that you have no problem staying under.

[1972hiboy]

I have done my time in a resto shop. It is so hard to quote these kinds of things because until you get into it, you just don't know what your going to find. I am sure they have buffered a few hours in there just for the what if factor but chances are high that the unforseen factor will rear its ugly head. Staying on friendly terms with them is paramount. Avoid becoming the enemy customer if possible. IF. Poking in a bit while its under way will allow you to judge the bad repair work factor.

[jamesdfo]

Here is an excellent thread, it's quite long, but good info .
And although it is written more from the shop owners side, it will enlighten you as to what is fair and reasonable to both parties.....

http://www.metalmeet.com/forum/showthread.php?t=7041

HTH
James