Getting a quote from a builder can feel like reading a foreign language. Line items, provisional sums, day rates — it's easy to nod along and hope for the best. But understanding what you're looking at can save you thousands and a lot of stress.
Here's a no-nonsense guide to reading a builder's quote properly.
What should a quote actually include?
A decent quote should cover:
- A description of the work — not just "bathroom renovation" but the specific tasks involved (strip out, plumbing, tiling, etc.)
- Material costs — ideally broken down so you can see what you're paying for
- Labour costs — either as a fixed price per task or a day-rate estimate
- A total price — inclusive of VAT if the builder is VAT-registered
- A timeline — when the work starts and how long it should take
- Payment terms — when payments are due (avoid paying everything upfront)
Fixed price vs. day rate
A fixed price quote means the builder commits to a total cost for the job. If it takes longer than expected, that's their problem, not yours.
A day rate quote means you're paying for time rather than output. This can work for small or unpredictable jobs, but it removes the incentive for the builder to work efficiently. Always ask for an estimate of how many days a day-rate job will take.
Red flags to watch for
Vague descriptions
If a line item just says "plastering" with no detail about which rooms or how many square metres, you've got a recipe for a dispute. Good quotes are specific.
No mention of waste removal
Skips, rubbish removal, and disposal of old materials cost money. If the quote doesn't mention them, ask whether they're included — or expect an awkward conversation later.
Unusually low totals
If a quote is significantly cheaper than others you've received, ask yourself why. It might mean the builder has missed items, is using cheaper materials, or is planning to charge extras as the job progresses.
No payment schedule
Paying a large deposit upfront is risky. A good builder will break payments into stages tied to milestones — for example, 10% deposit, 40% at first fix, 40% at second fix, 10% on completion.
What to do before you sign
- Compare at least three quotes for the same scope of work
- Check that every quote covers the same items — one builder's "full bathroom refit" might not include the same work as another's
- Ask about provisional sums — these are placeholder costs for items not yet specified (e.g. tiles the homeowner hasn't chosen yet) and can inflate the final bill
- Get everything in writing — verbal agreements are worth the paper they're written on
How QuoteScope helps
Reading quotes takes time, and spotting gaps takes experience. QuoteScope analyses your quote line by line — checking for missing items, benchmarking prices against market data, and flagging anything that doesn't look right. You get a clear report with a quality score so you can negotiate from a position of knowledge.