A guide to 'really understanding your renovation quotes'

Renovations are complicated, so it's no surprise the pricing you receive can also be hard to navigate.

Picking the best quote is easier said than done when you can't tell which is more favourable! It's ticky, and the age-old adage applies.

Make sure you are comparing apples with apples.

What do we mean by that? Well, what can initially seem like the same scope of works for your project may not be, when you subject it to closer scrutiny.

Take time to REALLY compare how detailed one set of pricing is compared to another.  Use the following list of questions as a guide to comparing your quotes.

• How broken down and clearly detailed is your scope of works? I.e. room by room, or stage by stage?
• Has every detail actually been accounted for on each of the quotes?
• Are there items listed as 'exclusions/extras' that you'd expected to be covered in the main scope?
• If they're not listed with the main scope of works, they WILL be extra.
• How much time and effort do you feel has been put into your pricing?

If you're unsure, take it to the builder and ask:

• Have you completed a job like mine before and how did it go?
• Do you have references that I could see or clients I could speak to?
• Are you licensed? A Master Builder?
• Are the materials of good quality? Who are your suppliers and why?
• What standard of finish does this quote give me?
• Do you offer a guarantee and what does that cover?

Arrange a time to meet with your potential builder and go over any sticking points or uncertainty.

Price shouldn't be the only deciding factor, particularly if it turns out your apple is being compared with a pear.

 

We hope that this article helps you to make the right decision for you and your project.

We know that undertaking a renovation is a huge monetary and emotional investment. Make sure you feel comfortable and satisfied that all of your concerns have been addressed before the renovation commences.