You have asked three builders for a price and received three very different numbers. Which is right? Often none is wrong; they are simply not pricing the same thing. This guide shows how to compare builder quotes fairly.
Start with the same information
Quotes can only be compared if every builder prices the same job. Give each one:
- the same drawings and structural details (not a conversation on the doorstep)
- the same specification: brickwork, windows, flooring, kitchen budget
- a note of any access or working restrictions
A builder who prices from a verbal brief will fill the gaps with their own assumptions.
What a good quote includes
- A description of the scope of work, with drawings referenced
- Itemised costs for main stages: groundworks, structure, roof, windows, first and second fix, finishes
- Materials and who supplies them
- Provisional sums (allowances for things not yet chosen, with the amount shown)
- Exclusions, such as fees, kitchen, flooring, decorating or garden reinstatement
- VAT shown clearly
- Timescale with a start and finish estimate
- Payment terms and how variations are priced
- Insurance and guarantees
Compare like for like
Lay quotes side by side and check:
- Same scope? Is everything in each quote?
- Provisional sums: one builder may allow £3,000 for tiling, another £800. The cheaper quote could simply be the lower allowance.
- Exclusions: a lower total may exclude items the others include.
- Who deals with approvals? Building control fees, party wall costs and inspections are often missed.
- Contingency: who pays if the ground is not as expected?
Why quotes differ so much
Genuine reasons include different overheads, availability, quality of materials and the amount of risk the builder is pricing in. Unfortunately, a very low quote can also mean an incomplete scope, corners cut or a builder who intends to recover the money through variations later.
Warning signs
- A price far below the others without a clear explanation
- A one-line quote with no breakdown
- Pressure to accept quickly or pay a large deposit
- No mention of building regulations
- Reluctance to show insurance or references
See also our red-flag checklist and questions to ask a builder and 10 tips for choosing a builder.
Do not choose on price alone
The best value is a clear scope, a competent team, good communication and a contract that protects you. Check that the price is realistic against typical ranges in our extension cost guide and agree the terms in a written contract with stage payments.
Get a quote from Abron Contracting
We are happy to visit, discuss your plans and provide an itemised written quotation. Request a quote or call 01633379170.
Frequently asked questions
How many quotes should I get from builders?
Three is a sensible minimum, based on the same drawings and specification.
Should I pick the cheapest builder?
Not automatically. Check what is included and why the price is lower.
What is a provisional sum?
An allowance in the quote for something not yet chosen or fully priced. The final cost may be higher or lower.
Is a quote the same as an estimate?
A quote is intended to be a firm price for defined work, whereas an estimate is an approximation that can change. Ask which you are receiving.
Can a builder charge more than the quote?
Only for agreed variations or genuine changes to the scope. The contract should explain how this works.
