When should I obtain quotations from builders for an extension?

Hi there once the planning permission has been obtained, you can invite Builders to quote they will be able to do this on a measured survey which can be taken off the plans. Builders are reluctant to quote unless planning permission is passed, or if the drawings are not available. please also check the Builders qualifications and remember the cheapest quote s not always the best kind regards Clive

You could start to ask for quotes now because you have plans available but it may be best to wait until you have your planning permission in place. This is just in case the application is refused and you have to get the plans re-drawn in which case it will have wasted both yours and builders' time. If you submit a full plans building regulations application rather than a building notice, this will help you to get a more accurate cost and should prevent any 'extras' if the inspector asks for changes to be made. If the inspector asks for adjustments as a result of the full plans submission then these should be easily done by your preferred contractor. Louise UK Property Services

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!"