COMPARING QUOTES

When considering making an investment such as buying a shed, it’s pays to look around and do your research to find the shed builder that is best for you. Comparing quotes isn’t easy and can sometimes be stressful and confusing. To make the process simpler, the list below will help in reaching an informed decision.

Check, check again and then re-check your door height and widths, again and again. Make sure the doors and other openings are high enough and wide enough to fit your machinery, boat, caravan or whatever you plan to store in your shed. Keep in mind that any roller doors you want will require losing up to 500mm of overhead room because of the mechanics of the roller door.

Pay attention to the thicknesses of the steel specified in the shed quote. For example, BMT is Base Metal Thickness and TCT is Total Coated Thickness. The confusion lies when sheeting marketed as 0.42 TCT is only 0.37 BMT.

Make sure all prices include GST. That way you know you won’t unexpectedly be hit with the GST later on.

What earthworks costs are involved in preparing the site for the construction of your shed? Take into consideration the excavation and clearing of the site. This is one of the most common areas where poor communication can result in time delays and extra cost blowouts.

Make sure the price includes delivery and all erection costs. Erection costs should include excavation and concrete for any footings, elevated work platforms and crane hire. These take up a significant chunk of the shed quote and if one quote does not include one or any of these costings, it will look much cheaper.

Carry out research on the reputations of the different shed builders. Look up Google or Facebook for reviews and previous work.

Every quote you receive should have an indicative time frame and payment schedule.

As appealing as it may be, never compromise on quality to save a couple of dollars. It will cost you more long term and the safety of your business and employees should be your top priority.

Finally, if it looks too good to be true, it usually is.

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