Independent project advisory

Builder quote review

Three quotes, three different totals, and no way to tell which one's honest. I'll line them up properly.

Why quotes don't compare

Builders price from their own reading of your drawings. One includes the drainage, another leaves it as a provisional sum, a third quietly assumes you're supplying the kitchen. The cheapest quote is often just the least complete one, and the difference comes back later as extras.

Three builder quotes compared: the cheapest has the most left out Quote A£58,000 likely about £74,000 Quote B£71,500 likely about £73,500 Quote C£66,000 likely about £73,000 Priced work Provisional sums Left out, paid later
Illustrative. The cheapest quote often just leaves the most out.
Architectural first floor plan with annotations marking rafters, connections and dormer construction
Quotes are only comparable once they are read against the same drawings and specification

What I do

  • Read your drawings, specification and every quote side by side.
  • Put all the quotes into one comparison so you can see like against like.
  • Flag exclusions, vague items and provisional sums that are likely to grow.
  • List the questions to send each builder before you choose.
  • Give you a short written report and a call to talk it through.

What you get

A clear view of the real cost of each quote and the risks in each one, usually within five working days of receiving your documents.

Questions

Do you need to visit the house?

Usually not. Drawings, the specification and the quotes are normally enough. If something needs seeing, I'll say so before charging for a visit.

Will you recommend a builder?

I'll tell you which quote is most complete and least risky. The choice is yours, and I never take anything from builders I assess.

What if I only have one quote?

A single quote can still be reviewed for gaps and risky items, and I'll suggest how to get comparable prices.

Not sure what help you need?

Tell me about your project and I'll tell you honestly whether you need me.