Planning a renovation? Read this first!

Please do give this a read before you say yes to your quote.

When planning a home renovation or improvement project, it’s completely natural to compare quotes, and when one comes in significantly cheaper than the others, it can feel like a win.

But in my experience, the cheapest quote is rarely the cheapest option in the long run.

Over the years I’ve been involved in many projects where homeowners initially chose a lower quote, only to discover later that important elements simply weren’t included from the start. What looked like a saving at the beginning can quickly become stressful and expensive once work begins.

One of the reasons I work closely with a trusted team of builders, decorators and tradespeople is to ensure that everything is properly considered and clearly allowed for from the outset.

Detailed below are some of the hidden costs that can sometimes sit behind a “too good to be true” renovation quote.

If you’re planning a renovation or improvement project and would like some guidance before you begin, please do get in touch, I’d be very happy to help.

Unrealistic allowances

Some quotes rely heavily on provisional sums or very low allowances for things such as bathrooms, kitchens, flooring, lighting or tiles.  Once the design selections are made, these allowances may not reflect the quality or specification required for the project, and costs can quickly rise.  As part of the design process, I help clients select materials, finishes and fittings early so that builders are pricing against realistic choices from the start.

Incomplete scope of works

One of the biggest reasons quotes vary is what has actually been allowed for.  A cheaper quote may cover the obvious headline items, but leave out essential details such as preparation and protection of existing areas, making good after structural work, waste removal, or the final decorating and finishing touches.  If it isn’t written down in the scope of works, it’s often not included and that’s where unexpected extras can appear later.

Site management and protection

Good site management takes time and planning. It includes protecting floors and surfaces, controlling dust, creating safe access routes, keeping the site tidy and respecting neighbouring properties.  These details make a huge difference to how smoothly a project runs and how your home feels during the works, but they are sometimes overlooked in cheaper quotes..

Experience and craftsmanship

Experienced tradespeople cost more for a reason. Skilled builders, decorators and specialists work efficiently, solve problems quickly and deliver a much higher standard of finish.  I’m incredibly fortunate to work with a team of trusted contractors, some of whom I’ve worked with for over 25 years, and that consistency and craftsmanship makes all the difference.

Variations later

A quote that looks low at the beginning may rely on adding variations later - costs for items that were never properly allowed for in the first place.  By working through the design and scope in detail before work begins, we can minimise surprises and ensure everyone is clear about what’s included.

The bigger picture

A successful renovation is about much more than the bottom line of a quote. It’s about clarity, planning and working with the right people.  When the design, specification and scope are carefully thought through from the beginning, projects run more smoothly and the final result is far more satisfying.

If you're thinking about having some work done and would like to enquire about my regular team, click below.

Enquire here