A practical guide — what to ask, what to avoid, how to compare quotes properly, and how to protect yourself. Written by us, but useful even if you go with someone else.
8 min read
Sounds obvious but it's the number one mistake people make. If three builders quote £8k, £12k and £15k for the same job, the cheapest one is either inexperienced or planning to cut corners. Builders' costs (materials, labour, insurance, overheads) are broadly similar — when prices vary that much, something's missing.
A fair comparison is between quotes that are within 10-20% of each other. If one is dramatically lower, ask what they've left out — usually you'll find materials are budget-grade, scope is reduced, or they're planning a "discovery" mid-job that adds extras.
A verbal estimate is worth exactly nothing. If a builder won't put it in writing — itemised, with specific materials and timescales — walk away. There's no good reason for vagueness.
A proper written quote should include: itemised materials and labour, specific products (brand and finish), realistic timescale, payment schedule tied to milestones, what's NOT included, contingency for unknowns, insurance details, and an aftercare/snagging policy.
Public liability insurance is non-negotiable — minimum £1m, ideally £2m. Ask to see the certificate. A builder without insurance can leave you exposed to massive liability if something goes wrong.
For specific trades: electrical work should be Part P certified, gas work must be Gas Safe registered. Don't take a builder's word — verify on the official registers.
Anyone can show you nice photos. Ask if you can visit a recent project, ideally something similar to yours. A genuine builder will be proud to show off finished work — and the clients are usually happy to vouch.
Also check Google reviews specifically (not just curated testimonials on their website). Look for patterns — recurring complaints are real warnings.
A builder offering "cash discount" usually means tax evasion. That sounds like your problem to ignore — until something goes wrong. With no paper trail, no VAT receipt and no formal contract, you have no recourse if the job goes bad or the builder disappears.
Pay properly. Get receipts. Protect yourself.
In closing
The cheapest quote often becomes the most expensive job — when corners need redoing, when the snagging never gets sorted, when the warranty turns out to be worthless. Spending 15-20% more on someone you trust often saves you 50% over the lifetime of the work.
If you want to chat about your project — even just to compare against other quotes you have — we are happy to come for a free site visit. No pressure, no obligation.
A word from us
Most jobs we get called to fix were done cheaply by someone who didn't care. Let us do it right the first time — no shortcuts, no surprises, just proper building work that lasts.