To get the most up-to-date assessment of local costs, it is best to ask local contractors and salespeople at building supply stores about rates.

According to the accusations, Santana asked contractors for money in exchange of contracts in the municipality.

I also suggest asking other contractors for their opinions before spending $9,500.

His department has borrowed more than $1 billion from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and asked major contractors to delay their billings, he said.

After months of discussion, New Jersey asked contractors for proposals but offered few specifications.

She said Mr. Suri's case "underscores the need for consumers to ask contractors if they are licensed, and to check their license history with us."

He even asked his tenants and contractors in his buildings for donations, amassing more than $100,000 for the campaign.

Look at old checks, she said, and ask contractors for duplicate bills.

He said that during the next phase, police would ask contractors to produce federal I-9 forms, proving that their employees are legally authorized to work.

That is the document in which the city outlines its criteria for a project and asks potential contractors to respond.