Transparency Construction. How we price and quote our works.
- Sophie Mitchell
- Mar 11
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 24
I have detailed our job pricing strategy on my About page. I feel it is a very clear pricing system.
Materials - I will thoroughly review the drawings and draft the specifications. Upon compiling the materials list, I will obtain quotes from suppliers, which will then be shared with customers to ensure their satisfaction. This process is designed to be completely transparent.
My customers would expected to purchase the materials directly with the supplier, once they have received the quote and the materials are ready for order,. This ensures they own the materials, not me. They will clearly see what they're paying for, eliminating any need for upfront payments.
Equipment - If we need to hire equipment like diggers, scaffolds, or towers, these will be quoted as well.
Labour - Will be calculated based on a build program, which you will receive a copy of and it will be explained to you. The daily rate for each individual working on-site will be transparent, forming the basis of the labour price.
Programs may be adjusted for unforeseen circumstances. If weather prevents progress, we won't overstaff to meet deadlines; instead, the project timeline will be extended. Delays may occur due to sickness, weather, or family emergencies.
Self employed operatives are expected to be paid every Friday for the work completed that week. My customers would only pay for the labour present on the job. If the program is delayed, you won't be charged for absent workers.
If we complete our labour program ahead of schedule, you won’t incur charges for those extra days. If we exceed the program, that risk is on me. I trust our plans will instill confidence that we will deliver as promised. Even though plans might change, having a plan allows us to manage any deviations effectively, which is my responsibility.
Extras will be priced similarly, documented in writing, preferably via email. No day rates, just fixed prices! More details on extras are available in this article Understanding Site Variations and Avoiding Unexpected Costs
Other Expenses – To be discussed openly per job. These could be as simple as travel expenses, insurance.
Upon job completion, we will add a 20% profit margin to cover all of my work after calculating all materials, equipment, labour, and extras.
Our prices will be cheaper that our competitors as the operatives will mainly be self-employed, we do not have vans or offices to pay for. I think you will be surprised at the quotes from us if you would like one. Materials have not gone up as much as everyone keeps insinuating! And nor has labour, but the day rate for self employed operatives drastically needs to improve LINK INCOMING.
I am not sure how other trades price jobs. But the 150-200K on the spot prices I got for my extension quotes seemed like a real guess. Having a clear pricing structure as stated above I believe makes everything very clear for everyone involved. Especially if an unforseen extra occurs. I know I plan everything, and I am very honest, but no one is perfect, I will make mistakes, but not big ones! I hope!
Currently, I offer job quotes at no cost. However, this won't always be the case, particularly as I prepare to execute the work at the quoted price, complete with detailed specifications and build programs. This will take time to get right for every job.
Everything comes back to contracts and managing risks of unmet commitments. I require a signed contract for every job, detailing specifications, payment terms, management of extras and variations, and a build program copy, signed by both parties for mutual protection.
The build safety act affects all jobs involving building control. I am always ready to sign a declaration affirming construction to specifications and drawings! This comes with an extra layer of responsibility I hope to carry one day!
Domestic clients must ensure CDM regulations are followed. I aim to eventually alleviate this stress for clients! I believe one day I will be able to become a fully insured principal designer and contractor.
The world may seem driven by greed, but my focus is on continuous work and building a strong reputation. I am confident that this pricing structure will help me achieve that goal.
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