Loft conversion quote

[VeuveVera]

Do you have to pay for architects drawings before they will give you a written quote?

I had a guy from a very reputable company come round last week.
Now just got details about upfront fee, but I thought I'd at least get a written quote and breakdown before we move ahead and get drawings.

[Intransige]

How can you get a quote without drawings? What are they quoting on?

The approach we're using (for an extension so admittedly more complex), is the lower the detail level the higher the contingency percentage. At the moment with very high level drawings my contingency is about 50%. I hope to get that down with more detailed planning.

[glitterglitters]

We only got an accurate quote after we had architect's drawings. Because of the structural side of things (particularly a dormer etc) it matters. Also will you need multiple steels, is the structure such it can be done with wood etc. It's definitely going to give you a more accurate assessment of cost and I'd be apprehensive to take a quote from a builder who didn't want specifics. Would feel a bit "plucked out of the air".

[TeenAndTween]

You could get an estimate without drawings accurate to maybe 10k, But you need to know what you're having for a quote.

Our loft conversion was 60k all in including carpets and painting around 5-6 years ago.

But it did include:

• 11 windows
• ensuite bathroom
• new hot water tank system

[VeuveVera]

Well I can't pay them until I get the money from the mortgage.
And mortgage people won't give it to me without a written quote

I defintely didn't get drawings the last time , .but they were a bit of a cowboy firm

[VeuveVera]

11 windows!
He's verbally given me 2 prices, one includes new roof. But I thought he said he'd get those prices to me. but all I've got is details of architects fees from the office.
I'll call him but just wondered what was normal

[Intransige]

From what I have read, upfront fees can be a bad sign for building work - a reputable firm should have enough cash flow to cover materials and expect you to pay in completion stages.

How many estimates have you got? (And it will be an estimate, not a quote, without detailed drawings).

This is useful: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/getting-home-improvements-done/before-you-get-building-work-done/

[TeenAndTween]

11 windows is a bit excessive I agree blame DH .

6 in a 3x2 overlooking the nice view to the front
2 out the back giving head height when getting out each side of the double bed
1 large in the bathroom giving head height over basin
2 in the mini landing at the top of the stairs, also adding light to first floor

It is my favourite room in the house now

[VeuveVera]

They have a very structured payment plan
The fee just covers architects drawings and £2k to start.
But I don't have that until mortgage company agrees it.
Estimate would be fine,just needs to be written

[LalaDipsey]

Hi, am also starting this journey. My experience so far is that a loft conversion company who only do lofts can supply a very accurate quote from measurements and their experience (as long as not too complicated a job) without architects drawings but a building company need architects drawings to quote.
I have had two very detailed quotes from loft companies by them measuring up and the only time it will change is if I add anything on.