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kitchen extension- how many quotes (not estimates)?

4 years ago

Hi everyone
We have three estimates for a kitchen extension, we are seriously interested in two of the builders, but do we need to make our mind up before only asking one of them to quote? This is what we have been advised as I suppose a quote is far more time consuming, it just seems odd to me as I would imagine once you get into the nitty gritty costs can differ considerably. Grateful for advice

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Comments (9)

Daisy England
4 years ago
Personally I stick with 3. At the end of the day you’ve probably looked into who provided the estimates and some of their work. Choose from them otherwise it could be endless.
Space Cat
4 years ago
I suggest you invite them all to tender for the project. There is sizeable variability on materials and execution so this will help you compare and contrast.

Bear in mind, the more detailed your specification the better for all involved.
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Gabby Wong
4 years ago
I’d definitely get at least the 2 that you’re considering or maybe even another one..
What people include or don’t include in them varies massively and can also vary quite a lot to estimates given!
Ellie
4 years ago
We got 3 written estimates, not in full detail, but it did list what was included. We had about 7 builders in to give estimates and only 3 actually got back to us.
Sara Marshall
Original Author
4 years ago
Thanks everyone! I have a further question on slightly different subject so will post further!
PRO
At No 19
4 years ago
The majority of builders will only give estimates, particularly for renovation projects because you never know what you might encounter once underway. one way around it would be to have a fixed price contract but I don’t think many builders would sign up for that. Another way of doing it would be to reveal your maximum budget, including contingency and any worth their salt will be able to advise whether it is realistic. As mentioned above accurate specification is the key as well as making decisions and sticking to them if possible.
Natasha
4 years ago
I think definitely best to get both (or all 3+) to do a full quote. We ended up with 4 full quotes for our extension and having all that information helped us negotiate down the cost of certain elements with our preferred company.
PRO
NRV Electrics Ltd
4 years ago
To ensure that the quote is accurate to your needs, give some thought as to what you use the kitchen for and when. For example do you want some sockets with USB outlets, do you need telephone or internet links. Sockets should be no more than one meter apart on the worktop and any peninsula should have a double socket at each end. Do you desire lights under the wall cupboards, if so where do you want them switched from? If you have ceramic tiles, you will be grateful for underfloor heating. Remember that whilst the kitchen is being refurbished it costs very little extra for an additional socket, but a great deal later!
PRO
Brandler London
4 years ago
Sara, the secret is to make sure that you have as detailed a specification as possible listing all materials that you are expecting your builder to buy for you. It is also desirable that you list the quantities and state that they are to include any wastage.

An example of a potential pit fall is the inclusion of the finished floor underneath all kitchen base units.

Also include the quantities of the light fittings, electrical power points, etc., etc.

Ideally you will want them to give you unit rates but this depends upon the quality of the builders that you are dealing with. We provide our Clients with very detailed specifications with line items for all materials works and FF&E items (furniture, fixtures & equipment)

Once you have the quotes back from your builders you will be able to easily compare them and then can negotiate with your favoured choice.

I would also strongly advice that you get your builder to sign a JCT contract with the specification attached and a duration for the works included.

Best of luck with you project!

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