How many quotes should I get for building work?

Three is a sensible rule of thumb: enough to see the range without taking over your life. Give each the same brief so the quotes can be compared.

Should I always accept the cheapest quote?

Not automatically. Check what is included and what is left out, and compare insurance, experience and the payment plan as well as the price.

What should I include in a brief?

What you want done, measurements if you have them, photos, finishes you have chosen and the timing you would like.

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How to get three quotes from tradespeople without the hassle

By the GlowUpp team · 27 October 2026

A cracked, weedy driveway next to a new block-paved driveway

BeforeAfter‹›

An AI-generated example. Real results depend on your own space.

Getting several quotes is good advice, but chasing tradespeople and comparing vague answers is a hassle. If you give everyone the same clear information, you will get comparable quotes with much less effort.

Write a short brief

Put together a one-page description: what you want done, the measurements if you have them, photos of the space, any finishes you have chosen and when you would like the work done. The clearer you are, the more accurate the quotes will be.

Show them what you want

Pictures save a lot of explaining. Photos of the current space and a few ideas or an AI redesign of your own photo show a tradesperson what you have in mind far better than words alone.

Ask everyone the same questions

Can they visit before quoting, or only give a rough guide from photos?
How soon could they start, and how long will it take?
Is the quote itemised, and does it include materials, waste removal and VAT?
Are they insured, and who will actually do the work?

Three is a good number

Three quotes is a sensible rule of thumb: enough to see the range without taking over your life. Ask for them at the same time and set a date by which you will decide.

Be fair to the tradespeople

Quoting takes time. Respond promptly, keep appointments and tell the others politely when you have chosen someone. People remember good customers, and you may want to call them again.

Compare them in one place

Put the quotes side by side in a simple table: what is included, what is not, the price, the start date and the payment plan. A great price that leaves out half the work is not cheaper.

Mistakes to avoid

Giving each tradesperson a slightly different description.
Choosing on price alone.
Taking a quote without a visit for work that needs measuring.
Leaving people waiting for an answer for weeks.

Send one brief to local professionals

With GlowUpp you can upload a photo, choose a design you like and share it with local professionals so they can send you quotes for the same job. It is free for homeowners. Always ask a qualified professional before moving gas, electrics or plumbing, or changing anything structural, and check your lease or local rules if you rent or live in a conservation area.

See your own driveway redesigned

Upload a photo and see AI-generated ideas in about two minutes. Free for homeowners, no sign-up needed to start.

Try it with your photo

Common questions

How many quotes should I get for building work?: Three is a sensible rule of thumb: enough to see the range without taking over your life. Give each the same brief so the quotes can be compared.
Should I always accept the cheapest quote?: Not automatically. Check what is included and what is left out, and compare insurance, experience and the payment plan as well as the price.
What should I include in a brief?: What you want done, measurements if you have them, photos, finishes you have chosen and the timing you would like.