How to compare bathroom quotes properly
Why quotes vary so much, what's included (and what's not), and how to make fair comparisons.
At a glance
Quick Checklist
Key points at a glance
- 1Check what's included in each quote
- 2Ask about skip hire and waste removal
- 3Confirm if VAT is included
- 4Understand payment terms and deposit
- 5Look for allowances vs fixed prices
- 6Ask what happens with unforeseen works
Questions to ask your installer
Take these to your next conversation with your fitter
- 1What's included in this quote, and what isn't?
- 2Is VAT included in the price?
- 3Are there any provisional sums or allowances?
- 4What happens if hidden damage is found?
- 5Does this include skip hire and waste removal?
- 6What's the payment schedule and deposit required?
- 7How long is this quote valid for?
- 8What warranty do you offer on your workmanship?
💡 Tip: A good installer will welcome these questions. If they dismiss them, that's a red flag.
💡Myth vs Reality
Common Myth
"All bathroom quotes should be roughly the same price"
The Reality
Quotes can vary by 50% or more depending on scope, materials, labour quality, and what's included. Always compare like-for-like.
Common Myth
"A higher quote means you're being overcharged"
The Reality
Higher quotes often include more thorough preparation, better materials, or insurance and warranties that cheaper quotes exclude.
What to look for
- •Itemised breakdowns showing labour, materials, and contingencies separately
- •Clear statements about what's included and excluded
- •Provisional sums vs fixed prices — know which items are estimates
- •Payment schedules tied to milestones, not just dates
Common mistakes
- •Comparing total prices without checking what each includes
- •Assuming all quotes cover the same scope of work
- •Not asking about hidden costs like skip hire, electrics upgrades, or plastering
- •Choosing the cheapest quote without understanding why it's cheaper
Quality considerations
- •Detailed quotes indicate organised, professional installers
- •Vague quotes often lead to disputes and surprise costs
- •Good installers explain their pricing, not just state it
- •The cheapest quote is rarely the best value
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This guide is written to help you make informed decisions, not to sell you anything. Always discuss your specific situation with a qualified installer.