Builder hasn't supplied written quote?

[a311]

Posted here as I know there's people in the trade.

We're getting quite a bit of work done in our garden, got a few quotes. The guy we decided on just quoted a price verbally plus VAT.

We've had work done in the past but not on this scale so haven't expected an itemised quote/contract.

My first thought is could be trying to pull a fast one with the VAT?

There's a shortage of reliable tradesman in our area, we've had trouble in the past with the quality of work.

Would just like to know if this is the norm? I guess it leaves him as open as me should he present me with a bill at the end for X if nothing written has been agreed or signed?

[t400ble]

No thanks, find one who will provide an itemised quote.

[TA14]

If you want to go ahead with him just write on the lines of: "thank you for your quote which, as I understand it, includes to do X, Y, and Z for the price of £X inc of VAT."

[Timmy40]

The VAT isn't necessarily a fast one, some people register for VAT some don't.

[ATG]

Did you actually ask for the quote in writing?

[Muncher]

I've only ever had one written quote (and that was for £200k+)...

[RobinOakapple]

Be sure to consider ALL the things that will need doing, such as debris removal, skip hire etc. If just the main points get onto the quote, or the acceptance letter, you may find yourself with a big pile of rubble to get rid of at the end of the project (for instance). Other unforeseen expenses are available.

[roofer]

If he's given you a quote plus VAT, then he needs to give you an invoice showing it. If he doesn't sit on the 20% till he does. I used to quote by looking, and that was the price they paid. If the fella is good at what he does, he should be accurate .

[a311]

Thanks for all the replies, I guess I just expected something that would cover himself as much as me. It's neither a huge or small job. I'm not particulary bothered within reason when it's completed as it's outside but would have thought an estimate/schedule might of been written up.

If you look on Citizens advice etc there advice is a bit OTT IMO wanting references, certificates etc.

I've done a bit of the prep work myself and got rid of all the waste i.e. soil, clay, etc so he's just supplying labour and materials

[bakerstreet]

TA14 said:

If you want to go ahead with him just write on the lines of: "thank you for your quote which, as I understand it, includes to do X, Y, and Z for the price of £X inc of VAT."

This is what I would do. I usually issue a basic purchase order with any decent size project on our house. Its in your best interest as well as the builder. At least you are both clear who is doing what and a decent PO will state that.

[Timmy40]

a311 said:

Thanks for all the replies, I guess I just expected something that would cover himself as much as me. It's neither a huge or small job. I'm not particulary bothered within reason when it's completed as it's outside but would have thought an estimate/schedule might of been written up.

If you look on Citizens advice etc there advice is a bit OTT IMO wanting references, certificates etc.

I've done a bit of the prep work myself and got rid of all the waste i.e. soil, clay, etc so he's just supplying labour and materials

Some is OTT, some isn't, does her have insurance for example? If he drops a plank on his head you want to make sure he doesn't hold you liable and that he has insurance in place to cover medical bills, time off work etc. Seems a bit OTT until it happens!

[hairyben]

I'd enquire about a write up detailing exactly whats included, I'd say it's vital on anything beyond simple/small jobs. It protects both of you and it's a bit sloppy to not bother, although don't write him off, there's many honest & fine trades/craftsmen who are just a bit slow and hopeless with paperwork.