Choosing the right electrical contractor isn’t just about price. A quote that looks cheaper on the surface can end up costing far more once you factor in variations, delays, or unplanned extras.
Here’s how to compare quotes properly — and avoid the pitfalls that catch out many businesses.
Check That Each Quote Covers the Same Scope of Work
One of the biggest mistakes businesses make is comparing quotes that describe completely different jobs.
Look for:
- A clear list of tasks
- Quantities (number of fittings, circuits, containment runs)
- Whether making-good is included
- Whether access equipment is included (towers, podiums, etc.)
If the scopes don’t match, the prices won’t either.
Tip: Ask for a line-item breakdown rather than a one-line “electrical works” total.
Make Sure Materials and Equipment Are Specified
A vague description like “LED fittings supplied” tells you nothing. There’s a big difference between:
- Generic budget fittings and
- Quality commercial-grade fittings with proper build standards and long service life.
Look for:
- Brand names
- Model numbers
- Lumens, wattage, colour temperature
- IP ratings where relevant
- Cable specs (e.g., LSZH, armoured, CAT6A vs CAT5E)
What does LSZH mean?
LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) cables are designed to produce very little smoke and no toxic halogen gases if they overheat or catch fire. They’re a safer choice for commercial buildings — especially offices, escape routes, and anywhere with high occupancy or sensitive equipment.
If one quote uses LSZH cables and another uses cheaper PVC alternatives, the cost and safety implications are very different.
Cheaper quotes often hide cost savings in lower-grade materials, so clear specification matters.
Check Whether Any Testing or Documentation Is Included (If You Need It)
For commercial installs, testing and certification isn’t always required, but many businesses still want:
- Test results for peace of mind
- An updated distribution board schedule
- Basic documentation of the work carried out
- Labelling of circuits or containment runs
If these matter to your business or facilities team, make sure the quote states whether they’re included.
If it’s not listed, assume it’s not included.
Look for Hidden Extras and Ambiguous Language
Phrases to watch for:
- “To be confirmed on completion”
- “Price subject to change depending on access”
- “Excluding containment”
- “Client to supply materials”
- “Assuming existing cables are suitable”
These often lead to variation orders and surprise costs.
A clear quote should lay out assumptions so you know exactly what you’re buying.
Compare the Level of Detail in Each Quote
A thorough quote usually reflects a thorough approach to the job.
Look for:
- Clear scope of work
- Detailed material spec
- Notes on access, logistics, and site constraints
- Timeline or expected duration
- Payment terms
- Warranty on workmanship or supplied equipment
Review the Proposed Timeline and Working Arrangements
A quote that says simply:
“Labour + Materials = £X”
…tells you nothing about what you’ll actually get.
In commercial settings, downtime equals lost money.
Check for:
- Availability and lead times
- Expected duration of works
- Whether out-of-hours work can be accommodated
- How disruption will be minimised
- Coordination with building management or other contractors
A cheaper quote that takes twice as long may not be good value at all.
Confirm Insurance, Professional Standards, and Experience
Even if a contractor isn’t part of a membership body, they should still be able to demonstrate professionalism.
Look for:
- Public liability insurance
- Employer’s liability (if applicable)
- Experience with similar commercial or industrial environments
- Clear health & safety practices
- RAMS if your site requires them
What does “RAMS if your site requires them” mean?
RAMS stands for Risk Assessment and Method Statement.
These documents explain:
- What risks exist on the job
- How those risks will be controlled
- How the work will be carried out step by step
Many commercial buildings — especially managed offices, shared premises, and construction sites — expect RAMS before any work begins.
However, not all sites require them.
Smaller, low-risk environments often don’t ask for RAMS.
In short: RAMS are only needed if the building, landlord, or main contractor requests them.
Compare Payment Terms — Not Just Prices
Common arrangements include:
- A deposit
- Staged payments for larger projects
- Final payment on completion of the agreed works
Be cautious of:
- Large upfront payments
- Cash-only arrangements
- Lack of invoicing or paperwork
Good payment terms reflect an organised, transparent business.
Assess Communication and Clarity
How a contractor handles quoting is often a preview of how they’ll handle the job.
Consider:
- How quickly they responded
- Whether they answered questions clearly
- Whether they surveyed the site thoroughly
- Whether they offered solutions or spotted issues early
Good communication is part of the value.
Don’t Choose Automatically Based on the Lowest Price
Aim for best value, not lowest cost.
Low quotes often cut corners in:
- Materials
- Labour time
- Access equipment
- Documentation
- Future-proofing or capacity planning
Fixing those shortcuts later usually costs more than choosing a competent contractor upfront.
Summary: A Good Quote Is Clear, Detailed, and Transparent
When comparing quotes:
- Make sure the scopes match
- Check that materials are properly specified
- Understand what documentation (if any) you want
- Watch for vague language or hidden extras
- Review timelines, logistics, and insurance
- Value clarity and professionalism over a low number
The more detailed the quote, the fewer surprises you’ll face.