10 quotes and counting...

Newly_retired

Just had new combi boiler put in to replace floor standing ancient one. It needed relocating,so quite a bit of pipe work. Also swapped two rads, and replaced two. Total cost just over £2400.
Being new to the area we picked four names from local church magazine and rang round. Also put it on my builder and had no replies.
One was going to be on holiday for next 6weeks. Another said he could come to do a quote in 3 weeks. Another turned up, and looked but never got back to us with a quote.
Fortunately we really liked the one guy who gave us a quote and was available. He had a good attitude, really used his brain to consider the best way of doing things. We are really pleased we found him and feel so lucky.

nirajn123

After years of renting, my recent home owner experience has been the same and bit comical in parts. I had trouble getting a gardner and someone to carpet the house (which we finally just shampooed existing one). MyBuilder was useless for these as no-one would reply, couple of shortlisted tradesman even declined.

I had a carpet fitter who declined to quote because he through the landing area and one of the bedroom would have too much waste due to layout (as if he was going to pay for it).

One plumber who we asked for Bathroom quote sumed it up nicely - he said he likes small jobs as money is paid cash and on the spot for a small work rather than a full bathroom refit which is too much of a hassel to take on.

I just hope I find good tradesman to hang on to.

spender717

We are having the same problem! Buying a house and want tradesmen in to just do checks/quotes and have said we'll pay for them, and next to no replies! Same with structural engineers, won't call us back to quote...argh!

houseimprover

Why have you not chased up the 3 you like but who didn't get back to you?

theGrinch

A few years ago, I had 20 quotes for sash windows (over 2 years) and again about 25 quotes for an extension over a similar period. These are quotes from people that actually turned up.

Many others made appointments and didnt and then there were numerous other conversations with people that never made appointments.

In the end, I got what I wanted at the time of my choosing at the right price.

mpet

mgtr wrote: »

Just go for British Gas.
Proper price, it'll be a proper job, and guaranteed.

Buy cheap - Buy twice

In our last house, we purchased a new boiler from British Gas. When it came to be installed, British Gas had sub-contracted to another company (not sure if they still do that). I must say, however, I was totally pleased with the sub-contractor - Swale Heating, that I contacted them direct for a new boiler and rads in our current house - wish I'd know about them before I went to British Gas - could have saved myself a few quid!

Not sure where the OP is located, but Swale cover Kent & Sussex -so if you are in that area, may be worth getting quote number 12 from them!