Preparing for a construction quotation: what to share with your contractor

Two quotations for the same building can differ widely — not because one contractor is cheaper, but because each one priced a different assumption. The fastest way to comparable, reliable prices is a clear brief.

1. Location and access

Share the plot location (a map pin is perfect), the governorate and anything that affects access: narrow streets, height limits, neighbours, or whether the site is occupied. Logistics often drive cost as much as quantities do.

2. Drawings — even preliminary ones

Architectural drawings let an estimator measure areas; structural and MEP drawings remove guesswork about reinforcement, cabling and pipework. If the design is still developing, say so — a range is more useful than a false precision.

3. A bill of quantities, if you have one

A BOQ prepared by your consultant means every bidder prices the same items. If there is no BOQ yet, a clear scope description per discipline (civil, electrical, mechanical, external works) is the next best thing.

4. Specifications and finishes

Finishes are where budgets drift. Note the level you expect — tiles, paint systems, ceilings, sanitary ware — or attach the specification.

5. Timeline

When do you want to start, and is there a fixed completion date? Programme pressure changes resourcing, so an honest timeline produces an honest price.

6. Ask for a site visit

Ten minutes on site can answer questions that drawings cannot. When you send your request to Lotus, you can choose a preferred working day for our team to visit.

Ready? Our quote request takes about four minutes, and you can attach drawings or a BOQ as PDF or images.