The material is only the starting point
Ask us to name the product, colour, finish and thickness. “White quartz” or “granite worktop” is not enough to establish that two quotes cover the same thing. If you are comparing alternatives, record the differences beside the price so you can judge the trade-off.
A price per square metre may not tell you the cost of your layout. Ask how the required pieces fit the available slabs and whether the price depends on slab use, minimum quantities or a particular stock item. This is especially useful for a large island or strongly directional pattern.
Itemise the fabricated details
List every sink and hob opening, tap hole, finished edge, drainer feature, upstand and splashback. For an island, record seating overhangs and waterfall panels. Ask whether these are included, optional or priced separately.
If a quote offers a different edge or thickness, understand why before comparing totals. A change in detail may affect the appearance and fabrication, not simply the amount of stone. See thickness and edge choices for a practical specification list.
Separate site work from stone work
Confirm survey or templating, delivery, installation and the work needed to prepare the kitchen. Ask about access costs where stairs, lifting arrangements or restricted unloading are involved. Include removal and disposal of the old top if you need them.
Plumbing, gas, electrical reconnection, cabinet alterations and decorating may be outside the worktop quote. Assign each task explicitly. A cheaper quote can represent less work rather than a better price for the same job.
Make the final comparison
Request a total with VAT treatment clearly stated, quote validity, payment stages and the terms for changes after templating. Check what happens if a site survey reveals additional work. Do not compare an estimate based on a rough sketch with a fully surveyed fixed quotation as if they were equivalent.
Prepare the same rough plan for every enquiry and use our quotation checklist to keep the comparison consistent.