To not know how to politely turn down a builder's quote?

[Suuudohnym]

I feel a bit pathetic asking this: 2 builders have quoted, both are lovely and I'd be happy for either to do the work. However, one has come out a little cheaper and can start considerably sooner so we're going with that one.

I've just come over all British and awkward about telling the other one we've gone with someone else. Also, when the one we are going with first sent me a quote, he very politely asked that if we chose someone else due to price, would we mind letting him know how much it differed by as he'd like feedback so he can see if he needs to adjust his pricing/is overpricing etc. Which seems fair enough. But if the one I turn down wants feedback like that, I don't want to get into a situation where he queries the other builder's price/tells me the other builder can't have accounted for everything etc.

Shall I just say we've gone with the one who can do it soonest??

Honestly, I don't know how I get by in life sometimes...🙄😆

I would just say it's because they can start sooner. Avoids the money discussion (I find things like that very difficult too).

Just say it’s the start date

I don’t know how you get by either!

Dear Builder B - thanks so much for your quote, I was really happy with and and it was very competitive but we’ve made the decision to go with someone else just on timescale. Thanks again, Su

Yep just say they can start sooner. I will say, depending how soon it is, it may not always be best.
And before people start shouting recession; I am fully aware. This is our industry and the good ones are still very much in demand and fully booked, despite what people may claim.

have you got refs from the builder who can start sooner? Spoken to people that have had him do a similar project before and if they’re happy?

IME tradesmen who aren’t booked in for a lot of work often aren’t very good as if they are good, they’re hugely in demand just by word of mouth. Some things are worth waiting for.

Thank you, all.
Yes, had refs and both were word of mouth recommendations.

Yes use the availability.

But if this wasn't a thing, you can just say "thanks very much, I appreciate the time you've taken to quote. On this occasion we've decided to go with a different company. All the best".

If they ask for feedback then you can tell them.

Tradesmen aren't used to this, it's all part and parcel of their job. I think you're overthinking it.

Oh, god, yeah, I'm definitely overthinking - but that's me all over!!!

THIS

With bells on.

Also, beware of a builder who starts, does a day or so of work, spends your money on materials, and then vanishes for two weeks to finish some other job he started several weeks ago.

I'd actually go with your second choice here.