Which term is used for when a contractor approaches a subcontractor to negotiate a better bid?

The term "bid shopping" refers to the practice where a contractor seeks to obtain lower bids from subcontractors after the initial bid has been received. This typically occurs when a contractor has received a bid from a subcontractor that they find acceptable but is looking to see if they can negotiate a better price or terms by approaching other subcontractors.

Bid shopping can be seen as a contentious practice because it can put pressure on subcontractors to lower their prices, potentially compromising the quality of work or leading to disputes over the final terms. Understanding this term is critical for professionals in the home improvement and contracting industries, as it influences both bidding strategies and relationships within the construction supply chain.