How to Compare Builder Quotes

Why the cheapest quote is rarely the best

It's tempting to go with the lowest number. After all, if three builders quote £45,000, £52,000 and £68,000 for the same extension, surely the first one is the best value?

Not necessarily. In construction, the cheapest quote is very often the one that costs you the most in the long run. Here's why — and how to compare quotes properly.

The problem with cheap quotes

A low quote can mean several things, none of them good:

• Exclusions — the builder has left out items like building control fees, structural calculations, or the kitchen fitting. These "extras" appear later.
• Vague specifications — no mention of materials, quality grades or brands, leaving room to substitute cheaper alternatives.
• No contingency — no allowance for the unknowns that emerge once walls are opened up.
• Cash deals with no paperwork — no contract, no accountability, no recourse if something goes wrong.

What a proper quote looks like

A professional builder's quotation should include:

1. A clear reference to the drawings — so it's obvious what's being priced
2. An itemised breakdown — foundations, structure, roof, glazing, electrics, plumbing, finishes — each priced separately
3. Material specifications — brick type, insulation grade, window manufacturer
4. Inclusions and exclusions — explicitly listed
5. A timescale — estimated start and duration
6. Payment terms — staged, tied to milestones
7. A contract — formalising the above

Questions to ask every builder

Before you sign anything, ask:

• Are you VAT registered? (If the quote is plus VAT, that's an extra 20%)
• Is this price fixed or an estimate?
• What's excluded?
• Who handles building control and structural calculations?
• What happens if we hit problems with the foundations?
• Can I see a current project and speak to a past client?
• What's your payment schedule?

The bottom line

A quote that's 15–20% higher may actually be the better value because it's complete, transparent and realistic. The gap between quotes often reflects what's been included — not what the builder charges per hour.

We provide detailed, itemised quotations that reference your drawings and list every inclusion and exclusion. No vague figures, no surprises later.

Get in touch using the form on our contact page for a transparent quote.