In this buying guide
Start with the same jobFollow the work beyond the visitCompare an ordinary day and an awkward oneQuestions for providersStart with the same job
Two prices are only comparable if they cover the same premises, equipment and deliverables. Write down the areas or items you want assessed. Ask both providers to explain any assumptions about quantities, access and available records.
Follow the work beyond the visit
A visit price may exclude the written report, a discussion of findings, a return visit or remedial work. Ask what you receive, when you receive it and how additional work is authorised. Do not assume a report includes repairs.
Compare an ordinary day and an awkward one
Illustrative example: one quote is £250 per visit plus £35 travel, and another is £295 with travel included. Over two visits, the first is £570 before VAT and the second £590 before VAT. A cancellation charge or extra visit could matter more than the £20 difference. These are invented figures, not market benchmarks.
Questions to include in your quote request
Send the same brief to each provider, and ask them to identify assumptions and exclusions in their reply.
- What exactly is covered, and what is excluded?
- Which assumptions could change this price?
- Will I get an itemised report and an explanation of the findings?
- Who authorises extra work, and at what rate?
This is purchasing guidance, not an assessment of your premises, technical approval or an interpretation of your contract. We do not publish unverified market-price ranges. Ask for a written quote for your actual scope.
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