Direct answer
Compare quotes against one written job scope. Check that each covers the same work, materials, responsibilities, timing, VAT position and waste arrangements. Clarify whether a figure is a fixed quote or an estimate, and resolve exclusions before choosing.
Give every business the same brief
A price comparison is meaningful only when businesses are pricing substantially the same outcome. Send the same description, dimensions, photographs and access information, then record any clarification supplied later.
If one business proposes a different technical solution, compare the difference in outcome and responsibility before comparing totals.
Is it a quote or an estimate?
Citizens Advice describes a quote as an agreed price for the work and an estimate as a best guess. Ask the business to label the document clearly and explain what could change the amount.
Do not assume a detailed-looking document is a fixed quote. If investigation is required before a firm price is possible, ask how the investigation and later work will be authorised.
Official guidance: Citizens Advice.
Compare these fields line by line
- Exact work included and excluded.
- Materials, product ranges, quantities and who owns unused materials.
- Preparation, protection, making good and waste removal.
- Start window, expected duration and dependencies.
- Total price, VAT position and how long the price is valid.
- Deposit or staged-payment dates and the milestone linked to each payment.
- Responsibility for permissions, inspections, certificates and guarantees where relevant.
- How additional or unexpected work must be approved.
Look beyond the lowest number
A lower total may exclude preparation, disposal, finishing or a material specification included elsewhere. A higher total may represent a broader scope rather than a higher price for the same work.
Ask written questions until you can explain the material differences yourself. If a business changes its proposal, request a revised written version rather than relying on scattered messages.
Final comparison checklist
- Confirm the chosen scope is complete and understandable.
- Check credentials, scheme membership and insurance relevant to the job independently.
- Make sure timing and access assumptions suit your property.
- Understand payment stages and what evidence marks each stage complete.
- Keep the accepted quote and final written agreement together.
Official guidance: Citizens Advice.
Sources and further guidance
- Before you get work done on your home — Citizens Advice
External guidance can change. Check the linked source for the current position and advice for your exact circumstances.