Contractor Bidding Guide

How to price accurately, protect yourself, and get the most out of the ONP platform.

How should I price my bid?

You're submitting a bid based on what the Client has posted — description, photos, files, and any inspector report. You have not visited the site unless you've arranged one independently.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Build in appropriate contingencies. If the information is thin, your bid should reflect that uncertainty. Don't price as if you've seen the job when you haven't.
• Use RFIs. ONP's Request for Information feature lets you ask the Client clarifying questions before submitting. Use it. A 5-minute RFI can save you thousands.
• Check for an inspector report. Projects with an ONP Inspector report give you measurements, photos, and condition notes that dramatically improve your accuracy. Bid more confidently — and more competitively — on those.
• Request a site visit if needed. For larger or complex projects, you can message the Client to arrange a walkthrough before submitting your final bid. Many Clients welcome this.

Is my bid legally binding?

Your bid is a good-faith offer to the Client. Once awarded, you and the Client should enter into a written contract that governs the actual work, pricing, change-order process, payment schedule, warranties, and dispute resolution.

Your contract with the Client — not the bid alone — is the binding document for performing the work. ONP is not a party to your agreement with the Client.

What if the actual job is different than the bid?

That happens. Standard practice:

• Identify the difference in writing (photos, notes)
• Issue a written change order to the Client with revised pricing
• Get the Client's written approval before proceeding
• Update your project record on ONP for documentation

ONP does not mediate pricing disputes between you and the Client. We provide the messaging history and project documentation if needed, but resolution is between you and the Client.

What about non-payment?

ONP does not currently process payments between Clients and Contractors. You collect payment directly from the Client per your contract. If the Client doesn't pay, your remedies are with the Client directly — mechanics' liens (where applicable), small claims court, collections, or other lawful means. ONP is not responsible for Client payment or non-payment.

Why is my subscription non-refundable?

Your subscription gives you ongoing access to bid on projects across the Platform. Like most software-as-a-service products, fees are not pro-rated or refunded when you cancel. You retain access through the end of your current billing period.

Why was a contractor verified but the job still went sideways?

ONP verifies license, insurance, BBB status, and (when claimed) Certified Veteran Owned Business status at the time of onboarding. We do not continuously monitor these items, and verification doesn't predict performance, integrity, or business conditions over time. Verification is a starting point — not a guarantee.