How to Get Realistic Quotes from Builders – Expert Guidance
When planning any building work, from a full self build to hiring a single trade for a renovation, navigating the world of estimates, quotes and fluctuating prices can feel daunting. In this guide, construction specialist Mike Hardwick explains how to secure reliable, competitive quotes and avoid costly surprises later on.
Estimates vs Quotes – What’s the Difference?
Many homeowners treat these terms the same, but they’re very different:
- Estimates are rough cost predictions that can change as the work progresses. These are common in renovations where unknowns often emerge.
- Fixed-price quotes are based on detailed drawings/specifications and should remain unchanged unless the scope of work is altered. Any changes will typically be charged as extras.
Understanding this distinction will make budgeting clearer and reduce the risk of financial shocks mid-project.
What Information Do You Need to Provide?
The accuracy of a quote depends heavily on how much detail you supply. Vague briefs almost guarantee unexpected add-on costs later. To avoid this, submit:
- Clear drawings
- A written specification of the work expected
- Details on materials, finishes and any non-standard requirements
The more precise your brief, the more realistic and usable your quote will be.
How Many Quotes Should You Get?
The standard advice is three quotes, but depending on project scale and market conditions, three to five is more realistic for main contract works. Individual trades may need fewer, especially if you already know and trust local professionals.
Avoid requesting too many prices — if builders learn they are one of ten bidders, many won’t invest time in producing a quote.
Why Do Builder Prices Vary?
There are several reasons quotes differ for the same job:
| Factor | How it affects price |
| Market demand | High demand increases prices; recessions drive them down |
| Single trusted source | Some clients only seek one quote, allowing builders to price higher |
| Low-ball tactics | Cheap quotes may exclude key items and add costly extras later |
| Risk level | Complex or innovative designs cost more due to increased risk |
Always compare quotes like-for-like and be cautious of anything too cheap — value matters more than price alone.
Be Realistic About Costs
Every contractor involved in your build needs to make a fair wage. Profit margins typically hover around 20%, though this fluctuates with economic conditions. What matters most is not how much the builder earns, but whether your home is delivered to budget and increases in value beyond its build cost.
FAQs
Where can I find vetted builders?
Start with recommendations from merchants, architects, designers or suppliers. Online resources such as the National Association of Building Contractors fully vetted builders
How much does it cost to build a house in the UK?
On average £2,200+ per m² for self-managed builds.
Around £2,750+ per m² when using a main contractor.
A 200m² home might cost approx. £440,000 to build.
What costs should be included in a self build budget?
✔ Demolition
✔ Surveys & reports
✔ Foundations/groundworks for tricky sites
✔ Utility connections
✔ Professional fees, planning, temporary services & living costs during build
Planning permission cost:
- Home alterations: £258
- New build (per dwelling, up to 10 units): £578
10–50 dwellings: £624 per dwelling