Compare building quotes against the same scope before comparing the totals. QBCC recommends obtaining more than one quote and checking they cover the same work, while considering scope, quality and service rather than only the lowest price. A lower figure may reflect different inclusions, assumptions or allowances.
Use the same information
Give each builder the same current drawings, specifications, schedules and scope notes. Record revisions and outstanding decisions so differences between quotes can be traced to the work included.
Read inclusions and exclusions together
Check site works, demolition, services, approvals, consultant work, equipment interfaces, temporary protection and handover documents. The relevant items depend on the project; do not assume a generic checklist covers every building. Ask for clarification where an exclusion shifts work to the owner or another contractor, and account for that scope in the comparison.
Understand allowances and assumptions
Ask what each allowance covers and how its amount was established. Confirm which selections or investigations could change the price and how changes will be documented under the proposed contract. Do not treat an allowance as evidence that any preferred product can be included for that figure. Compare equivalent assumptions and note unresolved matters explicitly.
Check the agreement, not only the quote
Review programme assumptions, access, payment terms and decision responsibilities. QBCC commercial-contract guidance describes written agreement requirements and core inclusions; home building work has its own contract considerations. Obtain project-specific advice where needed. Choosing a builder should involve a clear scope and working relationship as well as a price that you understand.
Discuss your scope with our team: Commercial builders in Brisbane.
Practical example
Build a comparison worksheet
Use one row per scope item and columns for each quote, the included amount or allowance, exclusions and questions still unanswered. Add separately supplied work so the comparison represents the whole project. Return clarification questions in writing. The worksheet is not a substitute for contract advice, but it makes differences visible before selecting a builder.
Project checklist
- Identical current document set supplied.
- Inclusions and exclusions mapped side by side.
- Allowance basis and unresolved selections identified.
- Access, staging and programme assumptions compared.
- Contract and payment responsibilities reviewed.
General project-planning guidance prepared with AI assistance; not independently professionally reviewed. Confirm property-specific design and approval requirements with your advisers.
Further reading
Confirm current guidance with the relevant authority before relying on it.
