Castile Construction Limited

I would be surprised if an Extension Builder is not VAT Registered. If they have done 2 or 3 extensions (dependent on size) they should be VAT Registered especially with other work in between.

I would presume you would have to pay VAT - the same as if the VAT Rate changes - we have to charge that rate as soon as it comes into effect.

I take it you were Quoted and not ESTIMATED? Some people do not realise that a Quote is the actual price that the job will cost, based on all information received (that's why a detailed Quote is important - so you know what areas are covered) and an Estimate is basically guessing the price and you will more than likely pay extra.

Remember - do not just go for the cheapest - as that may well be the work you get "Cheap"! Don't forget to look at and check up on References.

Hope all goes well

Maggie

There is no harm in asking! Although if you want an actual QUOTE builders would - should have a site meeting. Obviously this would not be possible if you are only viewing. I would say that most builders will only give a very rough extimate as it does not mean you will actually buy the property. The final price would also be affected by your personal preferences for things like the kitchen, bathroom, if new boiler is required, radiators and the style/type of re-decoration etc etc. So a total refurb could be anything!! I would say
minimum £20,000 and upwards. What ever a price of a Quote may be add 10% of that price for contingency - for unexpected things!

I agree with Urbanspace - if they are going to CHARGE for Quoting/Estimating then they should inform you before hand - so that you don't get CONNED in this way.

The days are gone with charging a fee to price jobs - I remember in the old days my dad charging for looking and "estimating" jobs - then for whatever reason the "free estimates" came into play for all builders etc.

In this day and age - especially with the recession - it would be good to Charge for the amount of time, fuel and paper that is taken up to provide a Quote .... but no one wants to pay out for jobs let alone charges - and they tend to go for the cheapest and quite often they then pay out more!

It amazes me watching Cowboy Builders or Builders from Hell etc ... as these have been on telly for years and people still do the wrong things when choosing a builder or any workman!

If they do daily rate - instead of a week - they could make it last for 2 weeks - by going slow!!

Best when planning achieved and even better once Building Regs in place. Even with all this once the job gets started - the Building Inspector can still ask for things that may cost - like wanting the footings deeper, different thinks with drainage etc. 99% of the time quotes are not affected with Building Inspectors altering things. Things not seen in the ground, roof and walls can be unfortunate and need to pay out - as these are "unforeseen".

The cheapest is definitely not the best and make sure you have a Quote and not an Estimate and actually read the paperwork to make sure things are covered. If they are not on their Quotes, they can say "Oh I didn't price for that!"