How to Read a Renovation Quotation: Scope, Provisional Sums and Variations

Most renovation disputes begin at the quotation stage, not on site. A quote that is vague about scope leaves room for disagreement later, and a quote that looks cheap often leaves things out.

What a good quotation contains

•     An itemised scope by trade, with quantities and descriptions of the work.

•     Material specifications, including grade or brand and who supplies them.

•     Clear exclusions, so you know what is not covered.

•     Whether approvals and permits are included.

•     A start date and a duration.

•     A payment schedule linked to completed milestones.

•     The warranty offered and what it covers.

Understand provisional sums

A provisional sum is an allowance for work or materials not fully defined at quote stage, such as tiles you have not yet chosen. It is a placeholder, not a fixed price. Ask how it will be settled and what happens if the actual cost is higher or lower.

Variations should be written down

Any change to the scope should be priced and approved in writing before the work is done. That protects both sides. A good contractor will not start extra work on a verbal agreement.

Compare like with like

A low quote can mean different materials, a narrower scope or items left out. Line up quotes against the same scope before comparing totals.

Red flags

•     A single lump sum with no breakdown.

•     A large payment requested before any work or materials.

•     No mention of approvals, warranty or exclusions.

•     Pressure to sign quickly.

How Spanex does it

Every job starts with a free site survey, followed by a written scope, a fixed quotation and a completion date before work begins. Variations are priced and approved in writing.

Want to compare a quotation you have received? Send it to us and we will tell you what it covers and what it does not.