What makes a quote complete?

A "complete" quote is one where the cost surprises live in the quote, not in the build. Use this list as your check.

Always must be in the quote

1. Labour for every trade involved (or a clear "subcontractor day rate × N days" line).
2. Materials with at least a category-level breakdown (kitchen units, worktops, taps, etc., or specified brands).
3. Prelims: skip hire, scaffolding, dust protection, site clean.
4. Making good: filling, sanding, painting, re-flooring after work is done.
5. VAT as a separate line (or stated as "all prices inc-VAT").
6. Validity period of the quote.
7. Payment schedule: how much up front, at milestones, on completion. Avoid quotes that ask for >30% up front.

Often missing (ask explicitly)

1. Building Regs sign-off (whose responsibility, who pays the council fee).
2. Structural calculations if any walls move.
3. Planning permission (if needed) and who applies.
4. Removal and disposal of existing fittings.
5. Snag period: how long after completion you can call them back for defects (industry standard is 12 months; written into the quote/contract).
6. Warranty on workmanship.

Red flags

• A round-number quote with no breakdown ("£40,000 for the lot")
• "We'll figure out materials as we go"
• No written payment schedule
• Cash-only or asking for payment to a personal account
• Reluctance to provide insurance details or reference numbers

The Scope of Works document from the calculator pre-empts most of these by spelling out what the quote must cover.