How much are siding companies willing to negotiate?

Question

I am going to be getting 3 quotes on siding this week? Is that enough or should i seek more? How much are siding companies generally willing to negotiate on the price? Should I try to haggle? Lastly, are there ever circumstances when homeowners insurance helps with the cost of new siding?

Answer 1

I think 3 is a good number to get a feel for the market and negotiating is an art that leaves plenty of room for the buyer to get what they want and the seller to make a profit. It's too bad you don't know anyone in the business....for example, I had my roof done and got outrageous quotes and the price almost doubled if I wanted an architectural roof....anyway, my parents had a personal friend who was a contractor. He did my roof and explained that an architectural roof only cost him a dollar more per (I forget the measurement but the point is I would have gotten ripped off big time). So, yeah, I would research first (internet is great for that) and haggle away keeping in mind that the seller does need to make a profit. As far as home owners....I guess you could try but why jeopardize it when you may REALLY need it some day.....

Answer 2

The amount of negotaition they might be willing to do depends on how busy they are currently. If they have guys standing around, they would be more willing to give you a price break. They generally will do this up front when they price the job, but you can't loose anything by asking.
Your insurance would only cover damage to the siding if it was caused by some event, say someone crashing into your house or parts ripped off in a tornado. If it's just normal wear or your desire to change the look of the house, your insurance won't help.

Answer 3

Get at least 3 bids. Check references. Drive around and look at jobs that are in progress. Doubt you will have any luck negotiating a lower price. Beware of the salemen that tell you they can do it cheaper because they got a deal on material. You normally get what you pay for. Companies that do bad work are not usually around too long. Find companies to bid that have been around a few years. This time of year, theres a lot of work so you may have to wait for the work to be done.

Answer 4

I've been dealing with contractors for weeks now and the way you get a better price is to get other estimates. They come down NOTHING. However, we got burned by a guy who low-balled us, then added expenses onto the END of the job, bringing his final bill over our highest initial estimate. You don't want to work with someone who is so low, it leaves you wondering, Why?? Finally, homeowners' insurance is only for claims due to damage--if you have some, then call your agent, but be prepared--they'll probably drop you the next year. It stinks but it's true, if the job is cheap, pay for it yourself and wait for the oak tree to flatten your living room before you call in a claim.