Prices and quotes
Fixed price or open-ended quote: why renovations overrun
· 2 min read
A fixed quote is one where the amount signed is the amount paid at the end, unless you approve a change of scope in writing. An open-ended quote — even if it is not called that — is one measured “by units to be executed”, one that does not name specific materials, or one that leaves items “to be defined on site”. The difference is not the starting price but who carries the risk if things turn out differently.
Three signs a quote is not actually fixed
A quote can look detailed without being fixed. These are the three wordings that most often turn a figure into an estimate:
- “Items to be defined on site.” Translation: that point will be priced once you can no longer compare with anyone, because the work has already started.
- “Top quality materials” with no brand or model. Without a specific reference or a written equivalent, the material can be downgraded without you noticing until it is installed.
- “Unit prices” with no total measurement. If the quote says €38/m² of tiling but does not say how many square metres there are, you have not received a price: you have received a rate card.
What counts as a genuine surprise
A legitimate unforeseen issue is something that could not be seen during the visit: a damaged joist under the floor, a broken soil pipe inside a wall, or damp that only appears once the surface is stripped. That exists, it is honest, and it is quoted separately and in writing so you can decide whether it goes ahead.
How to compare two quotes without being in the trade
You do not need to understand building work. Just put the two documents side by side and check whether both answer these seven questions:
- Does it include the complete electrical installation with a new consumer unit and certificate, or only “light points”?
- How many skips of rubble are included, and who pays if more are needed?
- Which specific material model has been quoted for flooring, tiling and taps?
- Does it include the permit or responsible declaration and its municipal fee?
- Is VAT shown explicitly?
- Is there a start date and a delivery date, or only an approximate duration?
- Is it written down what is NOT included? An honest quote states that as clearly as what is.
If one quote answers all seven and the other does not, the price difference between them is probably not real: it is the part one has written down and the other has left for later.
What to ask for before signing
- The quote in writing, with measurements, materials, timeline and payment terms.
- A clause expressly stating that the price is fixed and how changes of scope are handled.
- The schedule by week, with the committed delivery date.
- Who carries out the work: an in-house crew or subcontractors, and who answers if something goes wrong.
- The company's public liability insurance.