The problem with pricing from drawings alone
- Items that aren't drawn get left out, then come back as "extras"
- Builders make different assumptions about finishes and fittings
- Provisional sums hide the real cost until work starts
- You can't compare quotes like-for-like, so the cheapest can end up most expensive
What's in the package
- Tender drawings: technical drawings coordinated with the structural design
- Specification: materials, finishes and standards
- Room-by-room schedule of works: exactly what's being done, where
- Allowances for fixtures and fittings you haven't chosen yet, clearly stated
- Clear inclusions and exclusions
- Pricing document: a structured form every builder fills in, so quotes line up
- Programme expectations and a suggested payment schedule by stage
- Recommended form of contract: JCT Minor Works
How the tender works
- Shortlist: normally three builders, including any you'd like to invite
- Issue: every builder receives the same package
- Site visits and questions: answers are shared with all bidders, so everyone prices on the same information
- Returns: quotes are received by a set deadline
- Tender report: we compare the quotes like-for-like and flag gaps, risks and questions
What you receive
- The complete tender package
- A tender comparison report
- A recommendation meeting to help you choose