15 Questions To Ask When You Request a Quote for a Metal Building

When you call metal building dealerships to request a quote or submit a contact form online, it can quickly become overwhelming to try to compare quotes or confirm it’s for exactly what you want.

At Bulldog Steel Structures, our ultimate goal is to ensure that you are getting the best quality building for the best price — and we know that shopping around is necessary to be sure that you are getting the best price. We also pride ourselves on being fully transparent with every person we assist, and we feel that should be the standard with all companies.

We have put together a list of questions you can ask any dealer when requesting a quote, including us.

1. Are Your Metal Buildings Manufactured in America?

We believe this helps determine the quality of the building and the amount of time you will have to wait for the building to be manufactured.

2. What Is the Current Lead Time? When Does It Start?

Asking about lead time allows you to find the company that will get the building to you within your timeline. It is also important to ask because, in most cases, the lead time does not start until the installation site is ready.

3. Can You Send Me an Itemized Quote, Showing Me What Each Feature Costs?

Knowing what each feature costs gives you the knowledge to alter the building as needed to stay within budget.

4. Will I Receive a Rendering Showing Me What the Building Might Look Like?

Everyone involved in your project must have a clear understanding of where you would like the doors, garage doors, and windows placed. A visual representation of how your building will look will help avoid confusion with the manufacturer and installation crew.

5. Do You Have Any Pictures of Recent Installations Similar to the Building That I Want?

Metal buildings are custom made, so chances are there are no pictures of your exact design, but asking to see similar projects they’ve completed is a good way to see colors and how well the buildings are installed.

6. Is Delivery and Installation Included?

Some orders may require freight and/or additional labor charges. Be sure to ask to avoid surprises later.

7. What Kind of Insulation Is Available for This Building?

Most insulation provided by manufacturers is a moisture barrier, but it doesn’t hurt to ask if different insulation types are available.

8. Are There Any Fees That I Will Have To Pay Out of Pocket That Are Not Included in the Quote?

A forklift, freight, or engineered blueprints are required for some orders. You should discuss the cost of these things before your order is placed.

9. How Much Is Owed Upfront and When Will the Remaining Balance Be Due?

Depending on the order, most companies require a 10% to a 20% down payment. For larger orders, an additional down payment may also be required. The remaining balance is normally due at installation.

10. Do You Have Any Current Promotions Running or Coming up Soon?

This is also a good time to ask if there are any military discounts, if applicable.

11. What Is Your Refund Policy if I Decided To Cancel My Order?

While you most likely won’t pay a 20% down payment with the intention of canceling your order, sometimes things happen, and it is better to know the terms and conditions before you order.

12. Is There Any Financing or Rent-to-Own Options Available?

It’s important to know all of your payment options. Rent-to-own should not require a credit check, and you should not be asked to provide any personal information unless it is on a secure application.

13. Will You Be Able To Provide Plans if They Are Needed? If So, How Much Would That Be?

Most companies offer generic blueprints for free, but it is important to find out what you need for your city or county before placing your order.

14. Does Your Company Have Any Additional Requirements That I Should Be Aware Of?

For example, some companies may require a processing fee to pay with a credit card.

15. How Long Will My Quote From You Be Valid?

Price changes don’t happen often, but this question would require the company to let you know when or if your price from them will not be guaranteed.

Don’t forget that you can always send Bulldog Steel Structures a quote you get from a competitor, and we will see if we can price match! Contact us online or call (888)-551-2156 today to request a free quote from us. We’d be happy to answer the questions above or any others you may have.