Builders quotes

[Whyisitsodifficult]

We are in the process of getting quotes in for an extension. We’ve had one which was slightly more than expected. We’ve still got 2 more to come. Can I ask how many quotes did you get? Did they vary or were they very similar to each other?

I know the standard is three but I actually prefer to get more, say five, in case one of them is an anomaly but you can’t tell because of the small sample.

Usually aim for 4.
Try and get them to break it down and/or be clear what is or isn't included so you can compare properly

We got 3 informal (chatting to builder friends) ones and 3 actual quotes using accurate measurements and plans.

They were wildly different. £30,000 - £90,000.

Really get a breakdown that includes every thing. And don’t forget fees etc. Make sure it states whether it includes VAT. Also specific stage payments.
Changing your mind always costs - be due you have spent a long time considering your plans and how you will use your new space.
But ‘slightly more than expected’ is fine. Our first quote was double what the architect said it would be!

Wow 30-90k difference is huge! It’ll be interesting to see how the others come back! I think I’ll try and get some more quotes I think, and yes VAT adds a whack doesn’t it!

Probably silly question but when you are ringing companies for quotes, I'm assuming they don't charge to come out and measure up and give you the quote ?

We are starting to look for quotes also OP, we want a double storey extension, it's just a minefield where to start isn't it.

We’ve gone on recommendations and they’ve all had a look and we’ve not been charged for any quotes. It is hard work as I’m sure comparing quotes will be!

We emailed our drawings to people. They then chose to quote by email , phone or in person. Non charged.
We did this before putting in for planning permission as we needed to be sure the idea was worth persuing.

Haven't yet secured our builder yet, but at least we are confident we will find someone within budget.

Architect also gave a rough idea of costings.

We have only spoken with architects, they have given us loose quotes, which admittedly was more expensive than we envisaged (by about 15k) based in my husbands research.

The idea is that they submit the plans for permission and then give us the name of recommended builders who will deal with everything like plumbers, sparks and anything else to ensure I do not really have to project manage it by getting all the trades in separately and co ordinating them on site at the right time and the right order, if that makes sense.

For those of you who have had quotes- how much of a breakdown should I expect? Will it be itemised like x amount for bricks, x amount for timber etc?

First quotes (before planning permission) are just an overall figure, based on how many square metres, location and complication of build.

Can anyone show me an example of their quotes that have been broken down? We’ve got planning and just a vague overall figure from 1st builder!

Ours broke down what was included. Some things e.g. windows, velux, bifolds, kitchen fitting (dependant in design) were given a rough amount e.g. 3k allowed. Each item wasn't itemised but a total figure given at the end. Some rough estimate things cane in slightly cheaper and others more expensive depending on our spec. We've had no hidden surprises and we're almost finished.

Builders don't normally break down costs to a lot of detail.

Normally I ask for a breakdown of materials vs labour and split the work into stages. If you pm me your email address I can forward you a quote from when I got my front and back garden landscaped last year?