We’re working with a design+build firm we love on a major kitchen rip and replace.

The electrician quoted us a $9k for a heavy up, which our electrician quoted for 1/3 of the cost. When we pushed back, the firm’s trade took $1k off the cost. The build firm advised us to go ahead and use our normal electrician because they were still so far apart.

So we got the itemized budget today. Maybe I’m just sensitive because that electrical heavy up was such a mismatch but I still think both the plumbing and remaining electrical (lights and new outlets) work are significantly outside reason. I understand that we pay a premium for working with a design build and I don’t intend to nickel and dime every line, but these two were eye popping.

This is our first renovation. Can we ask them to use our electrician and/or plumber? Ask for another trade bid? I have no idea how to handle this, and would welcome any advice!