Key points
- Compare quotes item by item with the same quantities and specifications, not by total or price per metre alone.
- Each item states: description, specification or material, quantity and unit, unit price, and what it includes (supply, installation, transport, waste removal).
- Written exclusions (such as electrics, waterproofing or paint) are often why one quote is cheaper than another.
- Binaaline does not publish fixed prices because they vary by city, time and specification; a proper estimate comes from your quantities and real quotes.
Written for:OwnerContractor
Most disputes between owner and contractor start with an unclear quote. A good quote is not the cheapest one, but the one that tells you exactly what you pay for what.
Why don't we publish prices? Because prices per metre vary by city, time, specification and job size. Any general figure can mislead you. The more accurate way: your own quantities plus real quotes from several contractors on the same specification.
1) What each item should contain
| Element | Clear example | Vague example |
|---|---|---|
| Description | Supply and install porcelain floor tiles in the living room | Tiles |
| Specification | 60×60, with C2 adhesive per EN 12004 and cementitious grout | Premium type |
| Quantity and unit | 45 m² | Lump sum |
| Unit price | Price per square metre | — |
| What it includes | Supply, installation, cutting, transport and waste removal | Not stated |
For the specifications to ask for with each material: the materials buying checklist.
2) How to compare two quotes
- Write one bill of quantities (or get it from the engineering office) and give it to every contractor, so the comparison is on the same basis.
- Put the quotes in a table: item, quantity, each contractor's unit price.
- Look for missing items in the cheapest quote; they are often the reason for the difference.
- Read the exclusions: "excludes electrics", "waterproofing by owner", "one coat of paint".
- Compare duration, payments and warranty, not just price.
3) Contract terms that protect you
- Specifications and drawings are part of the contract, and changes need written approval.
- Payments tied to completed, signed-off stages, not to time passing. See construction quality checks.
- The completion period, and what happens on delay.
- A written warranty on the work (especially waterproofing) with its duration. See warranties.
- How extra work is priced (a unit price agreed in advance).
This is practical advice, not contract wording; large contracts deserve legal review.
4) Estimating cost yourself
- Calculate quantities: areas, lengths and number of points. Use the calculators for tiles, paint, concrete and blocks.
- Get a unit price for each item from at least three sources (suppliers or contractors).
- Multiply quantity by unit price for each item and add up.
- Add a contingency for the unexpected, especially in renovation where what lies behind walls is unknown. See the renovation checklist.
- Revise the estimate whenever a specification changes.
5) Warning signs
- A price far below the other quotes without a clear explanation.
- A lump-sum quote with no quantities or specifications.
- A request for a large advance before any work.
- Refusal to put the warranty or specifications in writing.
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This guide is for general information and planning, based on standards and technical guides. Standards are revised periodically; in Saudi Arabia the binding reference is the Saudi Building Code and the instructions of the competent authorities. For design and execution, use a licensed engineer or technician. Found an error? Tell us.