What should a builder's quote include?
The short answer
A useful builder's quotation defines the scope of work, sets out labour and materials, states exclusions and assumptions, makes the VAT position clear, gives a programme and payment arrangements, and says how long the price stands. If any of those are missing, the quotation is incomplete rather than competitive — ask for the missing information in writing before you compare it with anyone else's.
Key points
- A quotation is a fixed offer for defined work; an estimate is not.
- Scope, exclusions and assumptions decide what you are actually buying.
- The VAT position must be unambiguous.
- Payment arrangements and programme belong in the quotation, not in a later conversation.
- Missing information is itself a finding — chase it before appointing anyone.
Published by Kezariq Ltd. See the source links below for official guidance.
A defined scope
The quotation should describe the work in enough detail that a third party could tell whether it has been done. References to your specification and drawings, including revision numbers, are ideal.
Labour and materials
It should be clear which materials the builder is supplying, which you are supplying, and what allowances have been made for items you have not yet chosen. Ask whether prime cost or provisional sums are included and what they cover.
Exclusions
An explicit exclusions list is a sign of a careful contractor, not an evasive one. What matters is that you read it and understand who covers each excluded item.
VAT
The quotation should state whether prices include VAT, exclude VAT, or whether the contractor is not VAT registered. Where a project may attract a different VAT treatment, verify the position on GOV.UK or with an accountant rather than relying on the builder's summary.
Programme
An indicative start date, an overall duration, and the main stages. It should also note what the contractor needs from you — decisions, selections, access, approvals — and by when.
Payment arrangements
How much is payable and when, what triggers each payment, what happens to retentions if any, and how variations will be priced and authorised.
Assumptions
Ground conditions, existing structure, availability of services, working hours, access and storage. Assumptions are where risk quietly sits, and they should be visible.
Validity period
Material prices move. A quotation that says how long it stands is being straightforward with you. If no period is stated, ask for one in writing.
Identifying missing information
When you compare quotations, list every item that appears in one and not in another. That list is usually the fastest route to understanding the real difference between two prices.
Things to check
- Is it a quotation or an estimate, and does it say so?
- Does it reference your specification and drawing revisions?
- Are exclusions and assumptions written down?
- Is the VAT position stated unambiguously?
- Does it include a programme and payment arrangements?
- Does it say how long the price is valid for?
- Are insurance details and scheme registrations included or available on request?
Ask for quotes in a structured format
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This guide is general information for UK homeowners. It is not legal, planning, structural or professional advice, and it does not take account of your individual circumstances. Rules change and vary between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and by local authority.
KEZARIQ provides guidance and documents you complete and review yourself. It does not manage your project, carry out professional services, or replace an architect, surveyor, structural engineer, planning consultant or other competent professional where one is required. Nothing here guarantees planning permission, Building Regulations approval, prices, contractor performance or any project outcome. You remain responsible for your own project and decisions.