Should I receive a written quote for a job?

Question: I’ve been trying to get a written quote from various paving and driveway companies, most of them have only given a verbal quote but when I ask for it to be written I either get a vague breakdown via text and not on company letter/form or I don’t get a response. Is this unusual?

Answer(s):

Sean Saunders, Sean Saunders Painting & Decorating, Sherborne 

Yes, this is extremely unusual. Any reputable company will be more than happy to issue you with a written quote on headed paper. Also, ask to see their terms and conditions which most companies have on a website. If in doubt, use your gut feeling and don’t use them.

Jason O’Keefe, Taylored Drainage Solutions Ltd, Bracknell

In this day and age, it takes minutes to create an estimate for a customer. Giving a potential customer an estimate works for both parties and is the only way to work. If they can’t be bothered to give you this, walk away and find someone else.

Aaron Lawther, Cromwell Damp Proofing & Plastering Services, Cheshire

Hi there, no this is not unusual. I do the same. Usually, if a customer asks for this from the off they usually cherry-pick what they do and don’t want from the quotation. I make little bits on everything on the quotation so generally, I put a price in that I’ll make on the job. As soon as a customer starts crossing off on a quotation it dips my wages. This means that 1 or 2 things changed on the quotation and it’s not worth me doing the work anymore. Once the price is accepted I then do a full formal quotation. To me there isn’t any need to get a full break down, the price is the price. Take it or leave it. Just my view.

Ronald Gaunt, Staffordshire Roof Repair Services, Stoke-on-Trent

Never let anyone start any work until you have your free written itemised plan of works, and as a general rule, always get 3 WRITTEN QUOTES WHICH ARE FREE, if someone tries to charge for quotes, then forget them, hope this helps.

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