Comparing ConcreteRepair Quotes
Two concrete repair quotes can describe very different jobs. Compare the repair boundaries, materials, access, exclusions and variation process before comparing the totals.
Compare The Same Scope
Check that each price covers the same work.
Understand Allowances
Separate fixed items from uncertain quantities.
Ask Better Questions
Resolve missing details before accepting a quote.
Start WithA Shared Scope
The most useful starting point is a common description of the defects and proposed repairs. Give each contractor the same inspection report, plans, photographs and access information. A brief request to “repair concrete cancer” leaves too much open to interpretation.
Ask each quote to identify the affected locations, estimated repair quantities and the basis used to measure them. A square metre of shallow surface repair is a different task from deeper work involving reinforcing steel. Clarify whether the quantity is measured before or after breakout.
For a strata committee, record these answers in a simple comparison sheet. Mark an item as included, excluded, allowed for or awaiting clarification. This creates a more useful comparison than ranking the final figures alone.
Make Hidden Conditions Reviewable
Concrete repair quantities can change when unsound material is exposed. Ask how the contractor will record additional damage, price it and obtain approval. Where rates are used, confirm their units and what labour, materials and access they include.
NSW guidance on getting quotes explains the importance of clear information and written variations. Check the contract requirements that apply to your particular project before committing.
Where QuotesOften Differ
A lower price may reflect a smaller scope, different access assumptions or more exclusions. Ask for clarification in writing so the committee can judge the actual proposal rather than guessing at the contractor’s intention.
Undefined Repair Quantities
Unclear Waterproofing Allowances
Missing Access Or Finishing Costs
Check GST treatment, who supplies engineering advice and whether finishes are local patches or whole surfaces. A quoted warranty should state what it covers and any maintenance conditions; it is not a substitute for a clear repair specification.
Compare Quotes In Four Steps
Issue One Brief
Send the same defect information, plans and site constraints to each contractor.
Check Coverage
Compare preparation, repairs, protection, access and finishes line by line.
Resolve Gaps
Request written clarification of exclusions, allowances and approval points.
Confirm Terms
Review the agreed scope, payment stages, variations and completion documents.
Before YouAccept A Quote
For a bigger decision, compare repair and replacement options. Keep the accepted proposal and supporting documents together. For a committee decision, record why the chosen scope meets the building’s needs and what remains conditional on investigation or design.
Check Credentials
Verify the contractor’s relevant licence and project insurance requirements.
Name Decision-Makers
Agree who approves extra work and communicates with residents.
Set Hold Points
Identify which stages require inspection before work is covered.
Compare The Whole Project Cost
Repair Quantities
Confirm estimated areas, depths and the measurement method.
Access & Protection
Include establishment, hire periods and protection of surrounding areas.
Associated Work
Check waterproofing, coatings, tiles and other reinstatement items.
Uncertainty
Understand allowances, rates and the evidence needed for variations.
Need A ClearConcrete Repair Scope?
Share your inspection report and existing scope. We can discuss the site conditions and information needed for a meaningful repair quotation.
Reports & Drawings
Send the same documents being used for your quote comparison.
Access Constraints
Describe occupied areas, height and working-hour restrictions.
Decision Timing
Tell us when your committee or property owner needs the proposal.
