Frequently Asked Questions

You may have a number of questions, so we have compiled a list of some of the most frequently asked questions below to help answer those queries.

Should you not find what you are looking for or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact our support team who are on hand to answer all your questions.

Why should I choose Hotcost?

Hotcost offers a quick, affordable service, which will save your business precious time and resources. Our estimates are carried out by experienced estimators, who will ensure your project is handled efficiently and professionally. We have offices nationwide, giving us excellent insight and information in services available. In the construction industry, local knowledge with insight into national trends is key.

How can I be sure your figures are accurate?

Our figures are based on many years’ experience of all types of projects together with knowledge of daily trends in the industry. Each estimate is compiled in conjunction with your instruction to ensure that the highest quality of estimate is provided. Our estimators work via the EES software, and our nationwide coverage allows us a great knowledge which will ensure the most competitive bid for you.

What are your fees?

We believe that the fee should be based upon each project requirement which means that we review each project and provide our best fixed fee.

I have always thought estimating services catered only for bigger projects than ours.

Hotcost is glad to work on projects of all sizes. We have pleasure to work with companies of all sizes for projects from a few thousand to a few million pounds. There is never a project too small or too large that our team cannot handle.

In the past, we have done our own in-house estimating.

We understand that many companies will hire their own staff for estimating purposes. But with a growing industry it can be hard to keep on top of your tasks. We are here to help lessen your employees’ workload, freeing up their time to work on other projects. We work on a case-by-case basis, therefore you only pay for us when you need us, giving you piece of mind. We also offer a retainer service which provides estimating at a very cost effective fixed price.

How will we discuss and understand the logic used to arrive at the estimate amount?

We make our estimates and documents as straight forward as possible. Your estimate will be returned in an easy to follow format showing a breakdown of the labour and material fees. You can find samples of breakdowns, tender summaries, profit summaries, schedule of rates and qualifications by clicking here. We are adaptable to your requirements and if you require the estimate in a specific format, you have only to ask.

What is the timeframe for an estimate?

This will depend on the size and complexity of the project. Once we have received all the documents needed you will be appointed your own estimator who will handle the project for you and ensure your estimate is returned to you within the time frame you discuss.

Can I send you multiple projects?

Of course! We can offer some great savings when you need several projects estimated. Contact us for more information.

Of the estimates you have provided, how many of those tenders are successful?

This is an excellent question and is one that is not easily answered. In this industry there is never any guarantee that any tender will be successful. When you leave the estimating to us, you can rest assured that our pricing will be the best price physically possible based upon your instruction and will provide you the information to give you the best chance of securing that project. We are proud to say that we have many repeat clients and have formed a great working relationship with each.

What information will you require?

To begin a project, we ask that you specify whether it is an Electrical or Mechanical estimation, and subsequently send us what documents you have by our Uploader or one of the methods listed on our Contact Us page.

How can I send you my documents?

You can send us the required documents by clicking here, e-mailing us at client@hotcost.co.uk or delivering your documents to one of our addresses listed here. Please ensure you have spoken with us prior to sending your documents so we can schedule your estimate and provide you with the best service possible.

Do I need to keep in contact with you while you undertake my estimate?

Your appointed estimator will only contact you if there is any instruction required from yourself. Our estimators are highly professional and well experienced and will only contact you if necessary. You can contact us via the Contact Us section on this website or by any of the communication options we provide.

How can I contact you?

Either call us on 0800 052 6115, email client@hotcost.co.uk or click here for a full list of contact information. If you have any queries, or would like to send us documents, please do not hesitate to contact us!