Linestewardfor Homeowners
Post a job
Homeowner guide

How to compare quotes from local trades

The best quote to compare is one for exactly the same work. Give every trade the same description, ask for it in writing, and compare what is included, not only the total.

Last reviewed 30 October 2026. General guidance, not legal advice.

First steps

  1. Describe the job once. What needs doing, where, the size, what is there now, photos, and when you want it done.
  2. Ask about 3 trades. Enough to compare, few enough to manage. Posting one job here sends it to up to 3 local trades who do that work.
  3. Get it in writing. A quote is a fixed price; an estimate is a guess that can change. Ask for a quote where you can.
  4. Compare line by line. Materials, labour, access, waste, making good, the start date, how long, and when payment is due. If a trade is VAT-registered, ask whether the price includes VAT.
  5. Look the trade up. Insurance, the register that applies to the work (Gas Safe for gas, a competent person scheme for electrics), TrustMark or a trade body, and reviews.
  6. Agree how you'll pay. In stages for bigger jobs, as each part is finished. Keep a record.

Your rights

Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, a trader must do the work with reasonable care and skill, and keep to what they told you. If you agree a job in your home, you usually have 14 days to cancel under the Consumer Contracts Regulations. Citizens Advice explains what to do if something goes wrong.

Red flags

  • Pressure to decide today, or a price that only lasts today.
  • Cash only, with no written quote or receipt.
  • A large payment before any work or materials.
  • No business name or address.

Sources

More guides

Review us on Trustpilot