Choose a paid review ↗Detailed fictional demonstration
See the quote through a clearer lens.
This worked example shows the structure and level of explanation a TrueScope report can provide. Every name, value and finding is synthetic.
Sample / demonstration onlyNot a customer report, price benchmark, savings claim, contractor verification or professional certification.
TRUESCOPE BUILD / REPORT 002184
Residential renovation quote review
Johannesburg, Gauteng · Fictional homeowner · Fictional contractor
- Quote date
- 08 Aug 2026
- Quoted total
- R895 000 incl. VAT
- Documents
- Quote + 2 drawings
- Package shown
- Smart Quote Breakdown
78/ 100
Quote clarityWATCHUsable as a basis for discussion, but key commercial and scope questions remain.01
Executive view
Decision summary
Do not accept unchanged.
The total reconciles and much of the work is described, but the deposit, allowances and several completion details should be clarified in writing before signature.
02
Cost picture
Quoted composition
Where the R895 000 sits.
This visual shows the quote’s stated allocation. It does not represent a market benchmark.
Building and structural workR375 900Defined scope, some quantity detail missing
Finishes and joineryR223 750Product ranges need confirmation
Electrical and plumbingR170 050R142 000 is provisional
Preliminaries and otherR125 300Waste and final clean unclear
Quoted total incl. VATR895 000Arithmetic reconciles
03
Priority findings
What deserves attention
Findings with reasons and questions.
Each flag separates the observation from its possible impact and the question to send back.
01Higher risk
Deposit is not tied to defined mobilisation work
The quote requests 35% before work starts but does not state what is purchased, delivered or secured by that payment.
- Why it matters
- R313 250 requested before a measurable milestone
- Ask the contractor
- Please break the deposit into materials, mobilisation and other costs, with evidence of what becomes ours on payment.
02Higher risk
Electrical and plumbing scope is described as provisional
The allowance does not state quantities, fitting ranges, points or the basis used to calculate the amount.
- Why it matters
- R142 000 remains exposed to later adjustment
- Ask the contractor
- Please provide the assumed number and type of points, fixtures and fittings behind both allowances.
03Needs clarity
Painting preparation is not defined
The quote includes final paint coats but does not confirm crack repair, sanding, primer or protection of existing finishes.
- Why it matters
- Potential variation or finish-quality dispute
- Ask the contractor
- Please confirm the complete preparation system and the number and brand range of coats included.
04Needs clarity
Waste removal frequency is unclear
Removal is included, but the number of loads, disposal fees and final builders clean are not specified.
- Why it matters
- Unclear responsibility and possible additional charges
- Ask the contractor
- Please state the number of removal loads, whether disposal fees are included, and whether a final clean is included.
05Looks clear
VAT and arithmetic reconcile
The subtotal, VAT and stated contract total reconcile within the supplied quote.
- Why it matters
- No arithmetic exception identified
- Ask the contractor
- No question required on the supplied arithmetic.
04
Payment terms
Cash-flow exposure
The proposed payment path.
The deposit is the main commercial concern because it precedes a defined measurable milestone.
Primary payment question
What materials, mobilisation activity or other measurable value does the deposit secure, and what evidence will be provided before it is paid?
05
Questions to send
Contractor clarification sheet
Seven questions, ready to use.
Ask for the answers in writing and attach them to the final accepted scope.
- 01
What exact work, materials and ownership are secured by the 35% deposit?
- 02
Which drawings, specification revision and finish schedule form part of the price?
- 03
What quantities and product assumptions support the electrical and plumbing allowances?
- 04
Which items are expressly excluded from the quoted total?
- 05
How will variations be priced, approved in writing and added to the programme?
- 06
What evidence confirms completion before each milestone payment becomes due?
- 07
Are compliance certificates, testing, commissioning and final cleaning included?
Your quote deserves its own review
Turn the document into clear questions.
This sample shows the experience. A paid review applies the relevant checks to the quote or quotes you actually supply.