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Builder quote comparison checklist
Three quotes for the same job are rarely the same job. Use this list to line up exclusions, provisional sums and specification before you look at the totals — then print it and mark each quote as you go.
Before you compare totals
- Same drawings and revision number on every quote
- Same written scope (what is included / excluded) confirmed in writing
- VAT stated clearly (included or excluded) on every total
- Contingency treatment the same across quotes (held by you, or inside the price)
- Programme length and start assumptions stated, not just a price
Structure and fabric
- Structural steel — supply and install both priced (not install-only)
- Padstones, bearings and temporary works allowed for
- Foundations / excavation to the depth on the engineer’s drawings
- Made ground, drain diversions or deeper dig treated as provisional (and named)
- Roof type priced as drawn (flat vs pitched; covering and insulation spec)
- Brick / cladding matching — sample allowance or named product
Services and drainage
- External drainage connections and manhole alterations
- Build-over or diversion agreements with the water company (if relevant)
- First-fix electrics, plumbing and heating to a written layout
- Kitchen electrics / appliance circuits — firm price or justified provisional sum
- Underfloor heating (if shown) — supply and install
Access, site set-up and making-good
- Scaffolding — full period, including any roof or party-wall access
- Skip hire, waste removal and parking / permits
- Temporary roof or weather protection where the existing roof is opened
- Making-good where the extension meets the existing house
- Decoration allowance — none, limited, or full rooms stated
Openings, glazing and finishes
- Doors and windows — product range or allowance per opening, not just “aluminium”
- Rooflights — type, size and flashing included
- Flooring allowance (or excluded and owned by you)
- Kitchen and bathroom — supply-and-fit vs labour-only; allowance figures if used
- Insulation standards matching the building-regs / design spec
Provisional sums and exclusions
- Every provisional sum listed with a figure and a reason
- Ask for firm prices where the scope is already known
- Exclusions list read in full — not just the covering letter
- Party wall surveyor fees — in or out (usually out; still needs a line in your budget)
- Building control / approved inspector fees — in or out
- Architect / engineer fees — never inside a builder’s quote unless explicitly stated
Before you appoint
- Gaps put back to each builder in writing; revised figures returned
- Like-for-like comparison sheet completed (same rows, same units)
- References checked on comparable recent jobs
- Insurance, warranty and contract form confirmed
- Who pays for variations, and how they are agreed, written into the contract
Notes while you compare
Quote A · Quote B · Quote C — jot the firm totals once the rows match, then the remaining provisional sums you are still holding as contingency.
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