Have you recently hired someone to install an interlocking driveway, patio, or walkway, only to discover that the final cost was way higher than what you were originally quoted? You’re not alone. In Toronto and the GTA, many homeowners fall into the same trap: they sign on for a reasonably priced project, only to be hit with hidden fees, surprise “extras,” or unexpected work that drives the final price far beyond budget.
In this blog post, we’ll uncover why this happens so often in interlocking projects, what red flags to watch out for during the quoting process, and how you can avoid these budget-breaking surprises. We’ll also explain how working with a fully transparent, professional team like TheFixItGuys can protect your wallet and your peace of mind.
Why unexpected costs happen in interlocking projects
Even a well-planned interlock install can reveal hidden challenges once work begins. For example, excavation may uncover poor soil, old concrete, or tree roots that must be removed. A contractor might have to haul away extra dirt or debris, increasing dump and labour fees. One paver expert explains that surprises like buried obstacles can quickly raise “dump fees from more transportation…additional soil” costs, and may require new drainage work so the pavers don’t settle improperly.
Other factors can inflate the price: perhaps the quote didn’t include permitting or utility work (moving plumbing, irrigation, etc.), or the municipal permit ends up costing hundreds of dollars. Seasonal or market changes in material prices (gravel, sand, or the pavers themselves) may also appear after you sign a contract. In short, the site conditions and required preparations often dictate the real cost. A trustworthy contractor should alert you to these potential add‑ons up front. As one source notes, an experienced installer “knows what the average installation costs are… and will tell you about other hidden costs that you should look into”. When those extras are unclear, your project bill can climb unexpectedly.
Key reasons costs rise:
- Unforeseen Site Work: Rocks, roots, or poor soil found during excavation require extra labour and disposal.
- Additional Materials: Base stone, geotextile fabric, bedding sand and joint sand (often 10–20% more than basic estimates) add to the tally.
- Permits and Compliance: City permits, HOA approvals, or bringing utilities up to code can involve fees.
- Scope Creep: Changes in design or added features (borders, steps, grading) after work starts increase labour and materials.
- Weather Delays: In Toronto, harsh weather can delay crews or require site protection, lengthening the schedule.
Pay attention to whether your quote includes all these items. Often the contract will specify only basic scope (e.g. “install interlocking pavers”) and leave everything else as extra. That’s why even a small omission can lead to big surprises later.
Common red flags homeowners miss
Vague bids and sketchy contractors are red flags. Watch out for:
- Verbal or Vague Estimates: If a contractor only gives a ballpark number without a detailed written quote, hidden charges are likely. As experts warn, many companies give “vague verbal estimates” or written quotes that lack specifics. Without an itemised breakdown of labour, materials, and services, “hidden fees often appear later”. Always insist on a written contract with clear pricing, timelines and scope. Any resistance to signing a detailed agreement is a sign that they may tack on extra fees later.
- Unusually Low Bids: A shockingly low price can mean they’re underestimating or cutting corners. If a quote is much lower than others, verify what’s included. Lowball offers sometimes exclude important steps (like base compaction or sealing) and then add them on as “change orders” once work begins.
- No Portfolio or References: Reputable hardscape companies readily share examples of past projects. If a contractor hesitates to show you photos of completed driveways/patios or provide client references, take note. Industry experts say firms “should be able to showcase past work with photos, case studies, or references”; reluctance to provide these suggests inexperience or unhappy customers.
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- High Upfront Payment Demands: Be wary if they want a large cash deposit before any work or paperwork. Legitimate companies usually ask for a reasonable deposit (e.g. 10–20%) and bill the rest as work is completed. Pressuring you to “sign today for a discount” is often a tactic to lock you in without clarity.
- Poor Communication: Quick responsiveness is important. Contractors who dodge questions about costs, give vague answers, or “can’t send a contract” on email are difficult to trust. A lack of clear communication early on often leads to frustration and surprise charges later.
- Too Many Positive Promises: Beware of claims like “I guarantee the lowest price” or “you’ll pay $X flat no matter what.” Professional contractors set honest expectations; “unrealistic guarantees” are usually a sign of someone who might cut corners or over-simplify the bid to reel you in.
Before you sign, get multiple quotes and compare line-by-line. Look for missing items (e.g. permit fees, delivery charges, warranty, cleanup). If something feels off or the quote changes drastically at the end, it’s a red flag that hidden fees might be lurking.
Tips for ensuring transparent pricing
You can take steps to protect your wallet:
- Require an Itemized Quote: Ask each contractor for a breakdown of materials, labour and permits. Make sure everything – hauling old pavement, extra base material, edging, etc. – is listed. A good company will supply a clear, written estimate. In fact, some local installers advertise a “free written quote, with no hidden fees or surprises” so you know exactly what you’re paying before work starts.
- Ask About Extras: Specifically inquire about common extras. Will they include the cost of base rock and sand? What if the ground needs more preparation? Do they charge separately for trimming or removal of landscaping? Are permits included? A thorough contractor will either include these in the quote or clearly state them as potential add-ons.
- Check Licensing and Insurance: Make sure the contractor is licensed and carries insurance (liability and WSIB). A properly insured company is less likely to try sneaky cost-shifting. For example, TheFixItGuys note that they have $5 million in liability insurance and WSIB clearance; a sign of professionalism.
- Read Reviews and Testimonials: Look up the company’s reviews online and on their site. Honest feedback can reveal if past customers were hit with surprise costs. (See our Reviews to hear directly from satisfied clients.
- Get Everything in Writing: Once you pick a contractor, ensure the contract or proposal explicitly includes what was quoted. Check that it matches the initial estimate. An experienced company has no problem detailing terms: as one guide points out, professionals won’t shy away from clear documentation of scope, price and schedule.
By asking the right questions and insisting on transparency, you minimize the risk of unexpected bills. Remember that it’s reasonable to pay more for quality work – but not to be surprised by costs you didn’t agree to.
How TheFixItGuys deliver transparent, reliable service?
At TheFixItGuys, we pride ourselves on honesty and clarity. We give every customer a detailed, written quote and stick to it. In fact, our service highlights on-time, on-budget delivery and “Transparent Pricing & Upfront Quotes” as core promises. You won’t see hidden add-ons at the end – what we quote is what you pay.
Our team is fully qualified and fully insured: we carry $5 million in liability insurance, maintain WSIB coverage, and hold all the necessary licences. We communicate clearly at every step and stand behind our craftsmanship. As our site explains, we adhere to “the highest standards of professionalism, ensuring clear communication, adherence to timelines, and dedication to quality craftsmanship”.
Most importantly, our satisfied customers speak for us. You can see dozens of completed projects in our Project Gallery – or read more on our Reviews to hear what clients say.
When you choose TheFixItGuys for your interlocking driveway or patio, you get a transparent, hassle-free experience from start to finish. We’ll walk you through the entire process, itemize costs (no surprises), and treat your home with care every step of the way.
Conclusion
Unexpected costs don’t have to derail your hardscaping project. By watching for the red flags above and working with a clear, professional team, you can avoid sticker shock. TheFixItGuys are committed to fair, upfront pricing on all interlock jobs. If you’re planning a paving or patio project in Toronto, reach out for a free estimate; we’ll give you a detailed quote and answer all your questions. Contact Us today to get started on your next project, and rest easy knowing there will be no surprise fees down the road!
