Interior bids: price vs. quality

Interiors live or die on finish quality. Standardize the bid pack: detailed drawings, joinery sections, itemized BOQ, brand lists with equals policy, and installation methods (adhesives, curing, moisture control). Define mock‑ups for critical elements—approve samples before rollout. Score bids with a weighted matrix: technical compliance, commercials, QA plan, track record, and warranties. Check method statements for carpentry, polishing, paint systems, false ceiling integration, and MEP coordination. Demand site protection plans for completed finishes and dust control. Evaluate substitutes by performance data, installed references, and lifecycle cost, not just price. Align commercial terms to measurable milestones (mock‑up approval, sectional handovers, snag closure) with retention covering the defect liability period. Watch for exclusions like protections and debris removal—load them back for fair comparisons. Red flags: vague “equivalent” brands, no mock‑up commitment, unrealistic paint/polish timelines, and weak QA documentation. Balanced evaluation preserves design intent and durability.