What the quote leaves out, in writing
Most disputes are not about the price of what is in the quote - they are about what was never in it. Budget packages in Kerala commonly exclude the same items, and the exclusions are rarely printed as a list.
What to look at
- An exclusions list that exists at all
- Each assumed item either in the scope or on the exclusions list - never in neither
- The total of the excluded items, worked out before you compare two quotes
How to check it yourself
Ask for the exclusions as their own section, and check it against what these packages usually leave out: site clearing and earth filling, waterproofing, damp-proof course and anti-termite, external plumbing and the drain to the septic tank, lights and fans, wardrobes and kitchen, car porch and driveway, compound wall and gate, elevation detailing and cladding, and all interior work. Anything you assumed was included and is not, add up now.
Where this comes from: Kolo review of Kerala construction quotations and agreements (established trade practice)
More construction quotation and boq checks
- Identical tender pack sent to 2+ contractors
- Quote comparison and conflicts pass done
- Negotiation round held on the comparison verdicts
- Grades and thicknesses are written down, not just brands
- Waterproofing is scoped everywhere water goes
- How the work will be measured is agreed before it is priced
- The things you cannot occupy without are in the price
- The electrical safety layer is named, not assumed