Estimate or quote

Johnhowell

Dear All,

Is there a difference between a quote and estimate that we have received from various gardeners to do quite a bit of work at our place?

If we receive an estimate can the price stated be changed once works progresses?

We gave them a detailed schedule of works to price up, so should the price change?

Thanks for any advise.
John

McKneff

An estimate is just what it says, a round about price, and it can change.

A quote is the price that will be charged. Any extra work to be charged has to be authorised in advance by you preferably in writing.

Johnhowell

McKneff,

Thanks for this, I thought that was to case.

We have received quite a range of estimates and do not want to go for one of the lower prices for them to turn around later and increase the price significantly.

John

iamcornholio

Many builders/gardeners confuse the two and unintentionally interchange the two words.

You can get things like "fixed estimates" to mean a firm, fixed price, and "estimated quotes" to mean a fixed price which may change! And even get quotes which magically change due to "Oh, I never allowed for that"

Just ask whoever provides the quote/estimate if the price is fixed or if it may change - and ask what in their opinion may cause the price to change.

If you provide a schedule of works, then the price should not change whether a quote or estimate. Otherwise you have no chance of comparing different quotes