If you've started obtaining quotations or estimates for a house extension, there's a good chance you've already noticed something surprising:
The prices can be wildly different.
It's not unusual for homeowners in Ashford to receive two or three quotations for what appears to be the same extension project, only to find there's a difference of tens of thousands of pounds between them.
Naturally, the first reaction is often:
"How can they all be pricing the same job?"
The truth is, they're often not pricing exactly the same thing at all.
Drawings Don't Tell the Whole Story
Many homeowners assume that because every builder is working from the same set of drawings, the quotations should be similar.
In reality, drawings only form part of the picture.
Builders will often make different assumptions about:
- Specifications
- Finishes
- Site conditions
- Project management
- Labour allowances
- Risk factors
All of these can have a significant impact on the final figure.
What's Included and What's Not?
One of the biggest reasons quotes vary is because not every builder includes the same items.
For example, one quotation may include:
- Decoration
- Flooring
- Building control coordination
- Waste removal
- Final cleaning
while another may exclude some or all of these items.
The lower quote may appear attractive initially, but once those items are added back in, the difference can quickly disappear.
Provisional Sums Can Make Quotes Look Cheaper
A provisional sum is essentially an allowance for work or products that haven't been fully specified yet.
Common examples include:
- Kitchens
- Bathrooms
- Tiles
- Electrical fittings
If one builder allows £10,000 for a kitchen and another allows £25,000, the overall quotes will obviously look very different.
That doesn't necessarily mean one is overpriced, it may simply mean they've allowed for a different specification.
Experience and Management Matter
Not all building companies operate in the same way.
Some businesses include:
- Dedicated project management
- Regular site supervision
- Detailed planning
- More comprehensive communication
These things all cost money to provide, but they can make a huge difference to how smoothly a project runs.
While they may not be immediately visible within a quotation, they often become very apparent once work begins.
The Cheapest Quote Isn't Always the Cheapest Project
This is probably one of the biggest misconceptions in construction.
A low initial quote doesn't automatically mean the final project will cost less.
If important items have been omitted or unrealistic allowances included, additional costs can appear as the project progresses.
This is often why transparency is so important when comparing quotations.
Compare Like for Like
When reviewing
quotes or estimates, it's worth spending time understanding exactly what each builder has included.
Look beyond the headline figure and compare:
- Scope of works
- Specifications
- Provisional sums
- Inclusions
- Exclusions
- Programme
The more detail you understand, the easier it becomes to make an informed decision.
Choosing the Right Builder Is About More Than Price
Price is obviously important, but it's only one part of the decision.
Experience, communication, transparency and trust all play a huge role in determining how successful a project will be.
A builder who takes the time to explain their quotation or estimate clearly is often demonstrating how they'll communicate throughout the project as well.
Thinking About Extending Your Home?
If you're considering a house extension in Ashford, Surrey, we're always happy to discuss your plans and provide honest, transparent advice on costs, quotations and the factors that influence pricing.
📧 Email us here