Time and materials (T&M) charges based on actual hours and materials used. Fixed price charges a single agreed amount for a defined scope. T&M suits open-ended work; fixed price suits clearly defined scopes.
In practice
CRM Services uses T&M for a water damage investigation, then writes a fixed-price bid for the repair phase.
Why it matters
CRM Services uses both depending on project complexity.
Common questions
What are the risks of T&M for homeowners?+
Costs can exceed expectations if the work takes longer than anticipated. Request a not-to-exceed cap.
When is fixed price not the right choice?+
When the full scope is unknown — like investigating water damage behind a wall.
Need this done right?
Talk to a real contractor.
Free onsite consultation and a line-item estimate you can actually read.