How To Review Builder Quotes

 
 
 

When reviewing quotes from numerous builders you need to ensure the detail is the same before you start comparing the price and making a decision on who to hire.

The scope of work, specification and finish need to be the same otherwise you will end up comparing apples with oranges. 

Why is this important? If you make a decision on price alone, before analysing each quote in detail, you risk choosing a builder who hasn't included the full schedule of works or the correct finishes.

Let me give you some examples!

  1. Has the more expensive quote included tiles in the entire ensuite whereas the cheaper quote only included tiles in the shower?

  2. Does the more expensive quote allow for £15 per sqm for carpet whereas the cheaper quote only allows for £10 per sqm. This £5 difference might not seem like a lot but can quickly add up when applied to the entire floorspace of a property.

  3. Has the cheaper quote not included an allowance for the works required to the front and back garden? This is a common part of the refurbishment that is often forgotten about.

If you based your decision on the cheaper quote that didn't have the correct detail, your refurb cost is going to increase as soon as you start adding in the correct detail.

Had you analysed the detail of each quote and identified the differences, perhaps you would have chosen a different builder?

So how do you ensure you get like-for-like quotes?

Make sure you provide a detailed schedule of works, specification and finishes list to each builder, before they quote. This is very important, especially for an HMO.

Here are some questions to get you started: 

  1. How many sockets per room?

  2. Do you want TV points in bedrooms? 

  3. Standard paint or colour matched to Farrow & Ball? 

  4. How do you want the ensuites to be tiled?  

  5. Laminate or tiled hallway and kitchen? 

  6. Supply and fit the kitchen or will you be supplying it?

  7. Outdoor space - shingle or astroturf? 

Each of these decisions (and MANY more) have an impact on the cost of your refurbishment and quotes you receive.

Detail is key at this stage.

The more time you invest in creating a detailed schedule for the builders to quote from, the more likely you are to receive accurate prices and like-for-like quotes to compare. 

p.s. if you're feeling lost just thinking about creating a detailed list, we share our HMO refurb specification and finishes on our virtual HMO day so you can create your own with ease. Sound good? Be sure to reserve your ticket for the next date. 

 
Sarah Hodge