FRA action budgets and works quotations: what is the difference?

Use each figure for the right decision

An indicative budget helps you plan the next stage. It may show a range, an allowance for investigation or assumptions about access and the extent of work. A contractor quotation should describe a specific proposed instruction. Treating these two documents as interchangeable can create avoidable disagreements later.

Make assumptions visible

Our FRA Action Plan & Budget service identifies supportable cost ranges where the supplied evidence permits. It also identifies matters that need a survey or further information. We recommend keeping assumptions beside the relevant action rather than hiding them in a general email. Access, working hours, existing condition and required completion evidence can all affect a contractor’s proposal.

Compare equivalent scopes

Before comparing totals, check that each proposal addresses the same finding, location and intended outcome. Ask which items are included, which are excluded and what happens if an unknown condition is discovered. A lower total is difficult to assess when one contractor has allowed for investigation and another has assumed that none is needed.

Keep the priority discussion separate

Budget planning should not quietly change a risk priority or a deadline in the FRA. If a recommendation is unclear or cannot be achieved as written, discuss it with the appropriate competent person. Record any agreed clarification and the reason for it. Do not mark a finding complete simply because money has been allocated.

Choose the appropriate service

The action-plan package starts at £195, with scope and final price agreed before payment and no VAT added. A detailed review of the complete FRA starts at £295. A remedial works quotation enquiry is a separate route for discussing actual works and any investigation needed. The right starting point depends on whether you need an explanation, a planning budget or a contractor proposal.

Need the findings explained before obtaining quotations? Compare FRA review and advice packages.

Guidance and further reading

• Official guidance and further reading

Sources checked 12 October 2026. This article offers general information; it does not determine the requirements or certify the condition of a particular property.

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