How can homeowners compare quotes fairly?

The best way to compare quotes is to create a simple quote comparison schedule.
 

This does not need to be complicated. The aim is to put the main items side by side so that differences become obvious.

 

Compare like with like

Start by checking whether each contractor is pricing the same work.
 

Ask:
 

• Are they pricing from the same drawings?

• Are they using the same specification?

• Are they allowing for the same materials?

• Are they including the same level of finish?

• Are they including the same professional or certification items?

• Are they allowing for the same access and site conditions?

• Are they including VAT in the same way?
   

If the answer is no, the quotes need clarification before they can be compared.

 

Ask contractors to clarify unclear items

It is reasonable to ask a contractor to clarify a quote.
 

Useful questions include:
 

• Is VAT included?

• Is waste removal included?

• Is making good included?

• Are materials included?

• What specification have you allowed for?

• Is scaffolding included?

• Is certification included?

• Are Building Control inspections included?

• What is excluded?

• What assumptions have you made?

• What happens if hidden problems are found?

• How are variations priced?

• What warranty or guarantee is provided?
   

A good contractor should be willing to clarify their quote.

 

Look for missing items

Missing items are one of the biggest causes of budget problems.
 

A quote may appear cheaper because it has not allowed for something important. The homeowner may then pay for that item later as an extra.
 

Common missing items include:
 

• skips;

• scaffolding;

• decoration;

• making good;

• drainage;

• electrical certification;

• extractor fans;

• heating alterations;

• tiling;

• flooring;

• trims;

• ironmongery;

• Building Control fees;

• structural calculations;

• party wall matters;

• final cleaning.
   

A quote comparison process should flush these out before the contractor is appointed.

 

Consider the contractor, not just the quote

The quote is only one part of the decision.
 

Homeowners should also consider:
 

• communication;

• experience;

• suitability for the project size;

• quality of previous work;

• insurance;

• qualifications;

• availability;

• professionalism;

• references;

• warranty;

• how clearly the contractor explains the work.
   

The best quote is often the one that gives the best balance of price, clarity, experience and trust.

 

Keep records

All quote clarifications should be kept in writing.
 

If a contractor says something important by phone, it is sensible to confirm it by email. This helps avoid disputes later.
 

Written clarity is especially important for larger projects, staged payments, exclusions, variations and start dates.

 

Quote Comparison Checklist

Before choosing a contractor, check:
 

• whether all quotes are based on the same information;

• whether the scope of work is clearly described;

• whether labour and materials are included;

• whether VAT is included or excluded;

• whether the quote lists exclusions;

• whether provisional sums are realistic;

• whether making good is included;

• whether waste removal is included;

• whether scaffolding or access equipment is included;

• whether certification is included where required;

• whether professional fees are included or separate;

• whether the start date and duration are realistic;

• whether the payment terms are fair;

• whether the contractor has suitable experience;

• whether the contractor is insured;

• whether warranties or guarantees are clear;

• whether variations will be priced before extra work is carried out;

• whether you understand what could increase the final cost.
  
   

Frequently Asked Questions About Quote Comparison
 

How many quotes should I get for a home improvement project?

Many homeowners try to obtain two or three quotes. The important thing is that the quotes are based on the same information, otherwise they will be difficult to compare properly.
 

Should I choose the cheapest quote?

Not automatically. The cheapest quote may be good value, but it may also be missing important items or based on a lower specification. Always compare the scope, exclusions, VAT, materials and payment terms before deciding.
 

Why are builder quotes so different?

Builder quotes can differ because contractors make different assumptions, include different materials, allow different timescales, use different labour rates or exclude different parts of the work.
 

What does “provisional sum” mean in a quote?

A provisional sum is an estimated allowance for work or materials that have not been fully specified. The final cost may be higher or lower once the item is confirmed.
 

What does “PC sum” mean?

A prime cost sum, often called a PC sum, is an allowance for a supply item such as tiles, sanitaryware, kitchen units or fittings. If the homeowner chooses more expensive items, the final cost increases.
 

Should a quote include VAT?

The quote should clearly state whether VAT is included, excluded or not applicable. If VAT is not mentioned, the homeowner should ask before accepting the quote.
 

Should making good be included?

Making good should be clearly stated. Some contractors include plaster repairs, trims and basic making good. Others exclude decoration or only make good to a rough standard. This should be clarified.
 

What should I do if a quote is vague?

Ask the contractor to clarify the scope, materials, exclusions, VAT, payment terms and assumptions in writing. A vague quote can create problems later.
 

Can APN Home help compare quotes?

APN Home can help homeowners think through what to look for when comparing quotes and whether the quotes appear to be based on the same scope. Where appropriate, homeowners may also need professional advice from a designer, surveyor, engineer or project adviser.
 

Do I need drawings before getting quotes?

For larger projects such as extensions, loft conversions, garage conversions and structural alterations, drawings and technical information usually help contractors price more accurately. For smaller works, photos, measurements and a clear brief may be enough to start.
 

What is a variation?

A variation is a change to the agreed work, specification or scope after the quote has been accepted. Variations should be priced and agreed in writing before the extra work is carried out.
 

What is the biggest quote comparison mistake?

The biggest mistake is comparing headline prices without checking what each contractor has included or excluded. A cheaper quote may not be cheaper once missing items are added later.
 

Need Help Comparing Quotes?

APN Home helps homeowners understand the type of support they may need for home improvement projects, including extensions, loft conversions, kitchens, bathrooms, windows, doors, heating, electrical work, solar, insulation and wider refurbishments.
 

If you have received quotes and are not sure how to compare them, or if you are about to speak with contractors and want to avoid confusion, it is worth getting the scope and project information clear first.
 

Tell us about your project and APN Home can help you understand the next sensible step.