GETTING RELIABLE QUOTES
For building projects, navigating the maze of estimates, quotes and varying prices can feel slightly overwhelming. guide will help you to take control of the process, and avoid making costly mistakes Mike Hardwick’s comprehensive
Clear communication and thorough documentation, such as detailed drawings and specifi cations, are key to obtaining reliable and comparable quotes
Getting quotes for anything from a full house build to an individual trade is a time consuming but necessary part of your project. Simply accepting the first price from a general builder is risky, as quotes vary for many reasons. There will always be cost variations for the same work, for new houses and extensions. In this article, I’m explaining how to get the best value for money.
Bear in mind that renovation projects can often uncover hidden work, making accurate estimates and fl exibility critical to managing unexpected costs
Estimate or quote?
Many people confuse estimates and quotes, but the distinction is crucial. The former is an approximate calculation of what a job might cost, which is often subject to change as the work unfolds. This approach is common in renovation projects, where the full scope of the project may not be immediately apparent.
In contrast to this, a fixed-price quote is a firm agreement, which is based on a detailed plan or specification. If no changes are made, the quoted price is what you’ll pay for the work. However, any alterations to the agreed-upon scope will incur additional costs, often referred to as ‘extra over’ charges. Understanding this difference will help to ensure that you’re prepared for potential price adjustments and helps you budget more effectively for your project overall.