{"id":5480,"date":"2025-07-23T08:32:38","date_gmt":"2025-07-23T08:32:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.buildteam.com\/blog\/?p=5480"},"modified":"2025-07-23T09:12:36","modified_gmt":"2025-07-23T09:12:36","slug":"how-can-i-get-a-realistic-builders-quote","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.buildteam.com\/blog\/how-can-i-get-a-realistic-builders-quote\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 10 Tips to Get a Realistic Builder\u2019s Quote in 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Are you planning an extension or conversion<\/span><\/a> for your home in 2025? You are not alone! Many homeowners are finding it is the cheaper and more practical option than moving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The key to the success of your building project is getting an accurate and realistic quote from a reputable builder. Without an honest and realistic builder\u2019s quote you are at risk of going over budget, incurring delays and facing unexpected hidden costs mid-project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are our 10 practical tips to help you to get the best build quote for your extension or conversion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Begin with detailed architectural plans<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can only obtain an accurate quote if builders know exactly what you want them to build. Invest in detailed drawings from a qualified architect<\/span><\/a> or designer. These should include floor plans, elevations and all the key specifications. Define your project in great detail. The more details you provide, the better<\/span><\/a>. Without them, the builder will make assumptions and these can prove costly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Define exactly the work required<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Highly detailed architect\u2019s plans are essential<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

It is important to be very specific about exactly what work you want included in the quote. Will the builder be digging the foundations, be responsible for internal plastering, plumbing or electrics or will he be responsible for just building the shell?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are planning a conversion, the builder will need to know will he be required to install insulation, structural steel or construct a staircase?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To ensure clarity, every aspect must be itemised in detail. It is a good idea at this stage to arrange an on-site visit so that the builder can fully understand the complexity of the project and also assess drainage requirements, ecological aspects and ease of access to the site for builders and equipment. The more information the builder has the better as this ensures a realistic quote.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Get three comparable quotes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Prices for building jobs can vary widely. It is a good idea to get three quotes<\/span><\/a> from different reputable builders. The building companies should be carefully chosen, based on personal recommendations and consistently good customer reviews. Provide each of the three building companies with exactly the same information and request a fixed quote. Double check what is included in the price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Double check too that the quote you are given complies with all Building Regulations for structure, insulation, fire safety and drainage and that the quote reflects the costs of meeting these standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Do not be tempted to go for the lowest quote as this usually indicates that corners will be cut or inferior quality materials will be used.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

4. State your budget honestly<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Contrary to popular belief, revealing your budget will not lead to inflated quotes. In fact, knowing your budget will help the builder to make a proposal that fits within your price range. A good builder will tell you exactly what is possible with your budget and what compromises may be needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Get a full breakdown of costs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Materials such as steelworks must be in the quote<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

To ensure that you get a realistic quote and the best one for your project, request a full breakdown of costs and a suggested time frame. Make sure that VAT is included in the quote and confirm the builder is VAT registered. Most building work is subject to 20% VAT, but some conversions on listed buildings may qualify for a reduced rate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The quote should give the cost of each of these elements separately:<\/p>\n\n\n\n