Don't face the quote alone.

Bring an experienced tradesperson to your meeting with a contractor or mechanic: on a video call, or in person in San Mateo County and the SF Bay Area. We ask the right questions so you understand what you're paying for.

Request your backup See pricing →

How it works

Tell us what's going on

Send the job, the quote if you have one, and when the meeting is.

We join you

By video from your phone, or in person locally. We look, listen, and ask the questions a tradesperson would ask.

You decide

Afterward we give you a plain-English take: what sounds fair, what to question, and what to ask for in writing.

Simple, upfront pricing

Quote review

$29

Send a written quote or estimate. Get a written or phone review of scope, red flags, and questions to ask.

Video second-opinion call

$49

We join your meeting or walkthrough by video (FaceTime, Google Meet, Zoom), or review the problem with you live.

In-person backup

$149

A local visit in San Mateo County and nearby Bay Area to stand with you at the meeting.

Payment is collected after we confirm your booking. Travel outside the local area may cost extra; we'll tell you before you book.

Why trust us

Trades Backup was started by Robert Hopkins, a plumber based in San Carlos, CA with 20 years in the trades and a family business behind him. Robert personally handles the first sessions.

We're on your side only. We don't take referral fees or kickbacks from the contractors you're meeting, and we're not there to sell you the job.

What we do (and don't)

✔ Explain the work, materials, and typical approach
✔ Flag vague scopes, upsells, and missing details
✔ Help you ask for a clear written estimate
✘ We don't perform or bid on the work you're asking about
✘ We don't replace a licensed inspector or engineer

FAQ

What trades can you help with?

Plumbing is our deepest expertise. We can also help with general home repair and remodel conversations and auto repair quotes, and we'll tell you honestly if something's outside what we can judge.

Will the contractor know you're there?

For in-person and live calls, yes. We introduce ourselves as your advisor. Being upfront tends to get you better answers.

Do you guarantee I'll save money?

No. We give you informed advice so you can make your own decision. Sometimes the answer is "this quote looks fair."

Where do you do in-person visits?

San Mateo County (San Carlos, Belmont, Redwood City, San Mateo and nearby) and parts of the SF Bay Area. Ask us if you're not sure.

How do I pay?

After we confirm a time, we send a secure payment link or Venmo/Zelle details.

Is this professional or legal advice?

It's consumer advice and advocacy from an experienced tradesperson, not legal, engineering, or inspection services.