How to prepare and compare renovation quotes

1. Describe what changes and what stays

Prepare a room-by-room list. Include photographs, plans if available, approximate measurements and examples of the finishes you want. Separate essential work from options still under consideration: moving a bathroom, keeping doors or adding heating can substantially change the scope.

Include the location, floor level, lift and access arrangements, and whether the property will remain occupied. This helps plan a visit and review protection, deliveries and removal of materials.

2. Check measurements and demolition

Ask which area and which layers are to be removed. Lifting tiles and adhesive is different from also removing the screed or concrete below. Items should explain the included work, measurement method and handling of debris.

For walls and ceilings, check whether the price covers only the finish or also preparation of the substrate. Where concealed conditions are unknown, agree how additional work will be assessed and priced.

3. Distinguish installation materials from products

A tiling quotation should explain whether adhesive, grout, sealing and any required waterproofing are included. This prevents comparing a complete item with labour alone, or counting the same installation material twice.

Tiles, sanitaryware, taps, screens and furniture should have product references or a clearly defined allowance. Clarify who supplies them, how compatibility is checked and what happens if the selection changes.

4. Review installations and junctions

A new kitchen or bathroom may require changes to pipes, drainage and electrical points. Check where each intervention ends and how surrounding finishes are reinstated. With underfloor heating, review the floor layers and junctions with doors and stairs too.

See our information about bathrooms, kitchens and underfloor heating for related work.

5. Clarify supply, scheduling and payments

Product deliveries need to fit the work sequence. Special or made-to-order products can affect the programme. The quotation should identify agreed supply and payment conditions, as well as work that depends on outstanding decisions.

Check whether prices include VAT and how it appears in the total. Confirm specific tax questions with the appropriate professional; do not assume that two proposals use the same treatment.

6. Record changes before approval

If you add work during the renovation or an unforeseen condition is found, ask for a description of the change, its cost and the effect on timing before approving it. An identifiable work item makes the project easier for both parties to follow.

• Are quantities and units specified?
• Are products, installation materials and labour clear?
• Are exclusions and outstanding decisions explained?
• Are protection, removal and reinstatement covered where needed?
• Are payment terms and VAT clear?
• Is there an agreed process for changes?

If you are planning a Costa del Sol renovation, send the property details and proposed scope so we can review the next step.

Frequently asked questions