6 tips on comparing building quotes
It’s always very exciting to start a new building project - expectations and hope run high before you explore all the possibilities ahead of you. However, doubt can easily creep in. After research and referrals, you are now ready to get starter and request quotes from different suppliers Don't you wish all subcontractors worked off the same quoting template? Comparisons would be a walk in the park and confirmations would happen without the shadow of a doubt.
This is not the case though and when taking up the onerous task of renovations, it feels like treading heavily on new territory.
The team at Cobute has put together this list to flag doubts, when comparing quotes for structural and concrete works. Please bear in mind that our specialised knowledge is in the precast industry and the structural frame - if your project is slightly different i.e. plumbing, electrical - some of our items will not apply. Feel free to add extra tips in the comment section!
1. Did you check the square meters?
An excellent starting point is being aware of its own needs, i.e. square metres. It's easy to get the amount wrong; ensure you are aware of your surface needs and that the amount is the same across the different quotes that you have received.
2. Did you consider transport costs?
When it comes to building, transport is not DIY and trucks or special arrangements will be needed. Transport can end up being very heavy on your budget, especially if the products are not modular and stackable - ensure there is a line item for that across all the quotes.
3. To steel or not to steel
For structural renovations. you will need to make use of steel and mesh, as per your engineer’s design. Make sure the service providers know whether you want to buy it from them or not and check for consistency.
4. Confirm concrete consumption
Is the volume of concrete needed to be cast in-situ specified in the quotes? If not, ask for it - this is a very important item. The precast supplier might refer you to a concrete supplier directly;however, different precast systems have different concrete consumption so it is important that every supplier give you their estimated consumption.
5. Hidden costs
Carpentry and formwork costs are very often present in renovations when structural elements need to be cast. If these line items item is not are not in your quote, inquire about them.
6. Time is money
The adage “Time is money” is always true, especially during a building projects where delays and additional costs are potentially around every corner. Once you receive your quote, make sure you ask about the proposed timeline for delivery, installation and if required, casting.
As a general rule, ensure that all quotes have the same items, so that you can compare them on fair ground. Also, take a few days to think about additional questions and doubts you want to clarify before going full steam ahead.
Best of luck for your project ahead - did our tips help you get started on your project or do you have more tips to contribute? Leave us a note in the comment section!
