A quote is a fixed price. An estimate is a guess that can change. Get at least three, in writing.
One total
- A clear quote
- Each part of the work priced
Nothing about the skip or scaffold
- A clear quote
- Site costs listed
Silent on what’s missing
- A clear quote
- What’s included and what isn’t
“50% up front”
- A clear quote
- Payment stages tied to work done
No date
- A clear quote
- How long the price holds
| A vague quote | A clear quote |
|---|---|
| One total | Each part of the work priced |
| Nothing about the skip or scaffold | Site costs listed |
| Silent on what’s missing | What’s included and what isn’t |
| “50% up front” | Payment stages tied to work done |
| No date | How long the price holds |
What would your job cost?
Describe it, and see a typical price for your area. Then ask builders who do this work.
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How we wrote this
Written by Structa. The rules come from the official pages below. General information, not legal advice.
- Citizens Advice: Before you get building work done (checked 6 October 2026)