Contractor Exceeds Original Quote: What Are Your Rights?

When you engage a builder, electrician, architect, or another contractor to carry out work on your property, you expect the agreed price to be fair and final. But what happens when the final invoice is far higher than the original quote?

Unexpected cost increases can be frustrating and sometimes feel unfair. Understanding your rights and the difference between a quote and an estimate can help you resolve the issue confidently and protect your position.

What’s the difference between a “quote” and an “estimate”?

• Quote: A quote is a fixed price for a defined scope of work. Once accepted, it becomes part of the contract. The contractor must complete the agreed work for that price unless you approve changes.
• Estimate: An estimate is an approximation of cost. The final amount can vary, but it must still be reasonable in the circumstances.

If you accepted a fixed quote, the contractor generally cannot increase the price without your express consent.

When can a contractor lawfully increase the price?

In some situations, the contractor may be able to increase the cost but only if certain conditions are met:

• You requested or approved extra work or upgraded materials.
• You agreed in advance to a revised price or variation.
• The contract allows for reasonable and transparent adjustments, such as unforeseen works that were discussed and agreed.

However, if the contractor simply increases the price because their costs went up, for example due to higher material costs, but did not agree this with you or get your consent, then you may not be legally obliged to pay the extra.

What legal protections do you have?

Your rights depend on whether you are a consumer (i.e., a homeowner contracting work for personal use) and the date the contract was entered into. Some key legal frameworks:

• For contracts after 1 October 2015: The Consumer Rights Act 2015 applies. This Act requires that services be carried out with reasonable care and skill, at a reasonable price (if none was agreed), and within a reasonable time. It also prevents contractors from relying on unfair terms that allow unilateral price changes.
• For contracts before 1 October 2015: The Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982 applies similar principles, ensuring that any price charged must be fair and proportionate to the work done.

In practice, this means:

• If you accepted a fixed quote, you can hold the contractor to that price unless you authorised variations.
• If you received an estimate, the final price must still be reasonable in light of the work done and any genuine, unforeseen circumstances.
• Any term that allows the contractor to raise prices without consultation may be considered unfair and unenforceable under consumer law.

Understanding these rights can help you challenge excessive or unexpected costs and encourage a swift, fair resolution.

What should I do if a contractor exceeds their original quote?

1. Review your documents – Check whether you received a fixed quote or an estimate, and confirm what work was included.
2. Compare costs – Identify any additions or changes since the original agreement.
3. Raise the issue in writing – Dispute any charges you did not authorise and request an itemised breakdown.
4. Negotiate – Aim to resolve the matter amicably and in writing where possible.
5. Seek legal advice – If the contractor refuses to engage or the dispute continues, speak to a solicitor experienced in construction and consumer contract law.

Why engage specialist legal advice from Hegarty?

Construction and home improvement disputes can be complex: issues around contract interpretation, scope of work, quotes vs estimates, implied statutory terms, and consumer rights all interplay. An experienced construction or dispute resolution lawyer can help you:

• Review your contract, quote, and correspondence.
• Assess whether the contractor’s charges are lawful and reasonable.
• Negotiate or mediate on your behalf to reach a fair resolution.
• Advise on your legal options if further action becomes necessary.

At Hegarty, our team has years of experience in construction disputes, and we offer clear, practical advice to guide you through your options.

If your contractor’s final invoice exceeds the agreed price and you did not authorise the additional costs, contact Hegarty for a free initial assessment. We will help you understand your rights and the most effective way to resolve the dispute.