The Homeowner’s Guide to Avoiding Cheap Quote Pitfalls

If one builder’s quote is dramatically cheaper than the rest, there is usually a reason.

This guide explains why.

Written by Mal Middleton, Director of Forsyth Construction Surrey Ltd, this practical UK homeowner resource breaks down how extension and refurbishment quotes are structured — and where financial risk commonly sits before a contract is signed.

Two builders can price the same project thousands of pounds apart. The difference is often not efficiency.

It is scope.

This guide helps you understand:

• How to properly compare multiple builder quotes

• What provisional sums actually mean in practice

• The most common items missing from extension pricing

• How labour allowances can be understated

• Why dramatically low quotes often lead to later cost escalation

• Practical steps to protect your build budget before committing

Designed for homeowners planning structural alterations, refurbishments or extensions, this guide provides clear, practical insight drawn from real project experience.

Digital download (PDF format).

Instant access upon purchase.