if in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask for help
Check If the Price Is a Quote or an Estimate
Not all builders price projects the same way - and that’s okay. Each company has a different approach depending on how they manage risk and flexibility.
Before signing anything, ask: Is this a fixed quote or a flexible estimate?
- A quote is a fixed price for defined work. It can sound reassuring, but if anything unexpected arises (and in renovations, it often does), you’ll face a formal variation and potentially higher costs.
- An estimate gives more flexibility - it reflects actual time and materials used. For renovations and extensions, this approach is often more realistic and cost-effective in the long run.
At NZ Proud, we understand the need for flexibility of pricing type so can offer either estimates and charge up terms or Quotes & fixed price terms.
Learn more about our approach on our Our Process page.
Review the Quote or Estimate for P&G
P&G stands for Preliminary and General charges - things you might not see but are essential for running your project safely and professionally.
These include:
- Health and safety management
- Site setup and administration
- Project management time
- Travel and logistics
A good estimate will clearly itemise these costs. If they’re not included, ask your builder to explain where these costs sit. At NZ Proud, we believe every homeowner deserves clarity about what their money is paying for.
Check for Exclusions
Exclusions outline what’s not included in your project price. In renovation work, exclusions are common - and that’s completely normal.
Hidden issues behind walls or under floors (like wiring, framing, or plumbing) can only be discovered once work begins. These may become variations, but that doesn’t mean your builder is overcharging - it’s simply about paying for the real work required.
Tip: Always ask for a written list of exclusions before signing.
Track Your Budget Progress
A great building experience includes transparency. You should always know how your budget is tracking throughout the build.
At NZ Proud, we use budget tracking tools that show:
- What’s been spent so far
- What’s remaining
- Any approved variations
Both the client and builder should have a clear picture of costs from start to finish - no surprises, no hidden figures.
Learn more about our project management tools on our Our Process page.
Understand That Variations Happen
A variation is any change from your original plan that affects cost. These are common in renovations, especially once existing structures are opened up.
The key is how variations are handled:
- They should be clearly communicated before work continues.
- Both parties should agree on cost and scope changes.
- You should see variations reflected in your updated budget.
At NZ Proud, we recommend building a contingency of 5–10% into your budget to account for unexpected findings or design changes.
Read the Terms & Conditions
Every professional builder should provide clear Terms and Conditions of Trade. These outline how they charge, when payments are due, and what happens in case of delays or changes.
Good T&Cs protect both parties and mirror what’s in your building contract. If anything seems unclear, ask your builder to walk you through it.
Why Local Experience Matters
Because we live and work in Wellington and Kāpiti, we understand:
- The quirks of local homes, from century-old villas to modern coastal builds.
- Regional compliance processes with both councils.
- How to budget accurately for steep, narrow, or weather-exposed sites.
Over the years, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across the region feel confident about their renovation costs.
Final Thoughts
Before you sign your building agreement, take time to understand whether it’s a quote or an estimate, what’s included (and not), and how your builder manages budget updates.
With the right information - and the right builder - you can move forward with confidence.
Ready to talk about your project? Contact NZ Proud today for transparent pricing and expert local advice.
