How Long Should a Builder Take to Quote?
A few days for a straightforward job, longer for a larger project. What affects the wait, and what to do if a quote never arrives.
The short answer
Days for a simple job, longer for a big one. The builder should tell you which.
For a straightforward job, such as a repair or a small installation, a written quote within a few days of the site visit is reasonable. Larger projects take longer, because the builder may need to price materials, get figures from specialists or work from drawings, so a week or two isn't unusual. What matters most is that the builder tells you when to expect it, and then either delivers it or explains the delay.
A quote that arrives slowly isn't always a bad sign, and a quote that arrives fast isn't always a good one. This page explains what affects the wait, and what to do when a quote doesn't turn up.
What affects the wait
Why some quotes take longer
Size and detail
A single repair can be priced from the visit. An extension needs quantities, materials and labour worked through line by line.
Other people's prices
Where specialists or suppliers need to price part of the job, the builder is waiting on them before they can finish.
The builder's workload
Most small builders write quotes in the evenings, after a day on the tools. Busy seasons mean longer waits.
Drawings and specifications
If the design isn't settled, the builder can only estimate. A clear specification lets them quote properly, and faster.
Something they need to check
Access, a structural question, or whether the work needs certifying. A good builder will check rather than guess.
Whether they want the job
Occasionally a slow quote is a polite way of saying no. A clear decline is better, but it happens.
What to do
Keeping quotes moving
Ask at the visit
Before the builder leaves, ask when you can expect the quote. It sets an expectation on both sides.
Chase once, politely
If the date passes, send a short message. Builders are often grateful for the reminder.
Set a reasonable deadline
If you are comparing quotes, tell the builder when you plan to decide. It is fair to both of you.
Move on if nothing comes
If a builder can't send a quote after a reminder, it is a fair indication of how communication would go during the job.
Speed and quality
Fast isn't always better
A quote that arrives the same afternoon may be a sign of an efficient builder. It may also be a single figure with no detail behind it. A quote that takes a week may be slow, or it may be a properly itemised document that sets out exactly what you are getting.
What you want is a written quote that describes the work, lists what is and isn't included, shows whether VAT is in the price and sets out the payment terms. Our guide to what a building quote should include covers the details. If a builder won't put their price in writing at all, see what if a builder won't put a quote in writing?
If you are waiting on several quotes, how many quotes should I get? covers how to keep the comparison fair.
Speeding things up
Helping the builder quote sooner
There is a lot you can do to make a quick, accurate quote easier. Before the visit, write down what you want done and any preferences on materials or finishes. Have any drawings, previous survey reports or photos of the problem to hand. Make sure the builder can get to everything they need to see, including the loft or the back of the house.
At the visit, ask whether they have everything they need to price the job, and whether anything will hold them up. If they need information from you, such as a decision on materials, give it promptly. If they need a price from a specialist, ask roughly how long that usually takes.
The clearer the brief, the less guesswork goes into the price. That makes the quote faster, and it also makes it more reliable, with fewer surprises once work starts. Our list of questions to ask at a site visit helps you cover the ground.
If you use Mortaro
We tell you when to expect your quotation
After the site visit, your contractor prices the work and we prepare it as a written quotation naming them. On smaller jobs, such as repairs and rooflight installations, we aim to have it with you within about 48 hours. More involved work can take longer to price properly, and we will tell you when to expect yours rather than leave you guessing.
The quotation is free, carries no obligation and is valid for 30 days. More on the process is on how quotations work.
Straight answers
Questions about quote timings
Is it reasonable to chase a builder for a quote?
Yes. A polite reminder once the expected date has passed is normal, and most builders appreciate it. See our guide to choosing and checking a contractor for how this fits into the wider process.
How long is a quote valid once I have it?
It varies by builder, so check the quote itself. Many state a validity period, after which prices may be reviewed.
What if the quote arrives but I want changes?
Ask the builder for a revised written quote rather than agreeing the changes in conversation. It usually takes less time than the first one, and it means the document you accept matches the work you actually want.
Start here
Tell us about the work you have in mind
We will confirm we cover your postcode, arrange a site visit with a contractor from our network and send you a written quotation. No charge, no obligation.