In this buying guide
Start with scope, not a package totalSeparate the first year from later yearsKeep uncertainty visibleQuestions for providersStart with scope, not a package total
Establish which work is relevant with competent advice where needed. Then list the services, visits, reports and follow-up you are budgeting for. A budget does not establish a legal requirement or a suitable inspection interval.
Separate the first year from later years
Keep setup or one-off costs apart from recurring services. A service every few years may need a budget allowance each year, while the actual payment falls in one year. Show both views so a smooth annual allowance is not mistaken for the next invoice.
Keep uncertainty visible
Use written quotes where available and label unconfirmed figures as estimates. Record exclusions, validity dates, VAT treatment and known access constraints. Keep an unpriced-work list rather than entering zero for work you have not scoped.
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.
- Which figures are written quotes, estimates or still unknown?
- What falls due in the first year?
- What is the recurring annual allowance?
- Which remedial work or access costs remain outside the budget?
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 We do not publish unverified market-price ranges.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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