The architect can be of great service in the matter of contractor’s bids.  He knows the past performances of those operating in the vicinity where you propose building and can suggest the men or firms whose work is most satisfactory.  From four to eight general contractors, that is, individuals or firms competent to undertake the complete building operation, ought to be invited to submit sealed bids.  Each is supplied with a complete set of plans and specifications by the architect and given from ten days to two weeks in which to submit their bids.  In addition to the total price for the work, these bids, by common custom, give the names of the chief sub-contractors such as plumber, electrician and the like, with the amount of money allocated for the work of each.

On a set day, usually a Saturday afternoon, owner and architect meet, open the bids, and compare the offers made by the various contractors.  Most of them include alternate provisions on condition that they be allowed to substitute materials or methods of construction not according to the specifications.  The contractor who submits the lowest bid would logically be the one selected but here again the architect’s judgment is valuable.  First, he can rapidly determine whether the provisional saving suggested by substitution of unspecified materials is a wise change.  Second, he knows whether the bidder under consideration is dependable or inclined to skimp in hidden but essential points.

There is, also, the possible chance that none of the bids submitted come within the sum the owner is prepared to spend.  Then comes the task of revising plans and specifications and eliminating non-essentials to bring costs within the set figure.  From practical experience, however, architects have found that, if the proposed house is just what the owner wants, he will somehow find the additional money rather than have plans or details changed.

After a contractor whose bid and quality of work are satisfactory has been selected, the architect, acting for the owner, lets the contract to him.  This includes provisions for partial payments at stated periods as the work progresses; so much when the masonry is completed; another amount when the exterior walls are finished; and so on, including plumbing, heating, plastering and electrical wiring.  With each payment, fifteen per cent of the total is held back and does not become due until the entire work has been finished.  This is a standard practice and is intended to insure completion of the contract to the satisfaction of both owner and architect.  Under this provision, the architect certifies to the owner each month that certain work has been done and that the contractor is entitled to so much money for it.