Getting a quote for bespoke joinery can feel like an odd process if you have not done it before, especially when different companies seem to arrive at very different figures for what sounds like the same job. Here is how we approach it, and a few pointers on comparing quotes fairly so you are not caught out later.
We would rather spend a bit longer getting a quote right than rush one out that changes once work has started, because nobody enjoys unexpected costs partway through a project.
Why we start with a home visit
For anything beyond the simplest job we always prefer to visit the property rather than quote from photographs or a phone call alone. Joinery has to fit real walls, real floors and real corners, and those are rarely perfectly square or level, so seeing the space in person tells us far more than a description can.
During the visit we look at the room as a whole, not just the spot where the new piece will go. Skirting heights, door swings, radiators, existing furniture staying in the room, all of it affects the design and the cost, so it is worth having those conversations early rather than discovering a clash once we are on site with materials.
Taking measurements properly
We measure walls, floor to ceiling heights in more than one place, and check corners for square using a proper spirit level and square rather than guesswork. Older Hampshire homes in particular can have surprising amounts of movement in a wall over its length, and a piece built to a single measurement without accounting for that will not sit right.
Where the job includes fitted wardrobes or similar built in pieces, we also note where pipework, sockets and radiators sit, since these all have a bearing on the internal layout and sometimes on where doors or drawers can go.
What goes into a written quote
A proper written quote should set out more than just a total figure. Ours lists the work involved, the materials being used, roughly how long the job will take, and what is and is not included, for example whether decorating or electrical work is part of the price or needs arranging separately.
We also include any assumptions we have made, such as what happens if something unexpected is found once we start, like rot in a stud wall or a pipe run in an awkward place. Setting these out clearly at the quote stage avoids arguments later about what was supposed to be covered.
- A description of the work and the room it applies to
- Materials specified, not just a vague reference to timber
- A rough timeframe for the job
- What is included and what is not
- Payment terms and any deposit required
Deposits and stage payments
For most bespoke joinery jobs we ask for a deposit before work begins, which goes towards materials and workshop time, since much of the piece is often built off site before it ever reaches your home. The remaining balance is usually structured around stages of the work, such as on delivery and again on completion, rather than one lump sum at the very end.
We always agree these terms with you before any work starts, in plain figures rather than vague percentages, so there is no confusion about what is due and when. If a schedule of payments feels unclear or is not written down anywhere, that is worth questioning before you commit.
Comparing quotes from different companies
It is tempting to line up a few numbers and go with the lowest, but that only works if the quotes are actually for the same thing. One company's price might include solid timber doors and soft close hinges, while another's covers a much lighter specification, and neither quote makes that obvious unless you read closely or ask.
A fair comparison means checking materials, finish, what is included in terms of fitting and making good, and how long each company expects the job to take. It is entirely reasonable to ask a company to clarify any of this, and a company confident in its pricing should not mind explaining it.
Why prices can vary between visits
Sometimes a quote changes slightly between the initial estimate and the final written figure, usually because something was noticed on the second look that was not obvious at first, such as an uneven floor needing extra packing pieces, or a wall that is out of square by more than expected.
We always explain any change and why it has come about rather than simply presenting a new number. If a company cannot explain a change in price, that is a fair question to push back on.
Ready to talk about your project
If you are planning a piece of bespoke joinery and would like an honest, clearly explained quote, give us a ring on 02380 201687 or 07833 227576, or drop us an email at info@vipwalls.co.uk. We are happy to visit, talk through options and put together a written quote with no pressure attached.
Common questions
- How long does it take to get a written quote after the home visit?
- We usually turn a written quote around within a week of the visit, sometimes sooner for simpler jobs. More complex pieces with several options to consider can take a little longer as we work through the design details.
- Do you charge for the initial home visit?
- No, our initial visit to measure up and discuss the job is free of charge and comes with no obligation to go ahead.
- What deposit do you usually ask for?
- This depends on the size and cost of the job, but it is agreed and written down clearly before any work starts, along with the schedule for any remaining payments.
- Why is one quote much cheaper than another for what sounds like the same job?
- Usually it comes down to differences in materials, finish or what is included, such as fitting and making good afterwards. It is worth asking each company to break down exactly what their figure covers.
- Can the quoted price change once work starts?
- Only if something unexpected is found, such as a structural issue behind a wall, and even then we would discuss it with you before doing any extra work or charging for it.
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