A renovation quotation checklist: what to look for before you sign
A rough estimate helps you plan. A quotation is what you actually sign. Use this checklist to compare quotations on equal terms.
The scope
Every item should be listed with its location, size or quantity, and material. "Painting: whole house" is too vague; "Painting: living, 3 bedrooms, 2 coats, brand and colour" is clear.
What is included and excluded
Check disposal of waste, protection of common areas, permits, cleaning and final touch-ups. Ask what is not in the price, such as appliances, lighting or curtains.
Prices you can compare
Ask each contractor to quote the same work list. Lump sums hide differences, so ask for item-level prices on the larger lines such as carpentry and tiling.
Variation orders
Changes will happen. Agree up front that any extra work is written, priced and signed before it starts.
Timeline and payment
Look for a start date, a finish date and a payment schedule tied to progress, not just dates. Avoid paying most of the money before work begins.
Warranty and after-care
Ask how long the workmanship warranty lasts and who to call when something needs fixing.
Check the firm
Confirm the company's registration and ask to see completed projects. For HDB flats, check HDB's renovation guidelines and use contractors who meet them.
Before you collect quotations, set your own budget range with the free RenoFlow estimator. It will tell you quickly if a quote is far outside the expected range.
Try it now: RenoFlow or open the free estimator.