Help me understand construction costs

[singtome]

Currently in the process of getting quotes for building work, and it's a minefield.

When people say build cost is £2000 per sqm for a rear extension, what does this include? Is it literally just the build (i.e, creating the shell), or does it include flooring, windows etc?

Pre covid and brexit I would say £2000 per sqm in the south east would include windows but not flooring, decorating or fixtures and fittings. It would include plastering and electrics and plumbing. Post covid/brexit with the additional material and labour costs I would imagine the £2000 per sqm has increased to nearer £2500 to £3000.

Thank you, so seems like just the cost of making the shell airtight and functional.

Good question, OP. I'm doing calculations for an extension too.
Does the £2000 per sq meter ( not south east so hoping it's not as high as 3000!) include VAT?

@user1471530109

Good question, OP. I'm doing calculations for an extension too. Does the £2000 per sq meter ( not south east so hoping it's not as high as 3000!) include VAT?

Yes, my quote was all inclusive but with a small builder who isn't VAT registered

When we had our extension, it included the build (to a plaster finish) so windows, plumbing (fitting of bathroom but not bathroom itself, and not tiles / tiling), basic electrics, internal doors, radiators, light switches / plug sockets etc.

Having said that, all of those were what I'd call "builder's basics" - so cheap white internal doors, white plastic lights switches, standard radiators. We therefore had to pay to upgrade to oak doors, column radiators, nicer light switches. Also, the electrics were the minimum so had to pay extra for more spotlights, more plug sockets etc.

You need to go through the quote line by line. Also don't forget VAT on top.