You received a window quote and do not know what to look at? You do not need to be an expert. You need to know what should be there and to compare like with like. We give no prices here, because they depend on each case. We give the map for reading the paper line by line.
If you have not asked for quotes yet, start with How to ask for a quote. Whoever asks well gets quotes that are easier to read.
First: a quote is a contract in miniature
A quote that is accepted, signed and paid becomes the proof of what was agreed. If something is not there, it is hard to demand it later. So it pays to read calmly, with a pen in hand, and underline what you do not understand.
What should be listed for each window
A good quote states, for each window:
- Sizes (width × height) and how many there are
- Material of the frame (PVC or aluminium), brand and model, and the colour
- Glass: double or triple, and whether it has a coating
- How it opens: side-hung, sliding, tilt-and-turn
- Hardware (hinges, handles) and locks
- Shutter or blind, if included
If the window only says “PVC window 120×100”, almost everything is missing. See what each option means in Opening types and Profile classes.
What should be listed for the service
Much of the price difference is here:
- Removing the old windows and taking away the rubble
- Installation and sealing around the window
- Wall finishing (repair, paint)
- Transport and fitting
- VAT: is it already in the price?
- Delivery and installation time
- Warranty (of what, and for how long). See Warranties and certificates
- Quote validity and payment terms
Example: two quotes for three windows
| Quote A | Quote B | |
|---|---|---|
| Frame | “PVC” | Brand and model given |
| Glass | “Double” | Double, coating described |
| Removing old windows | Not stated | Included |
| Wall repair | Not stated | Included |
| Warranty | Not stated | In writing |
| Total | Lower | Higher |
A is cheaper, but does not say whether it includes removing the old windows or repairing the wall. B is dearer and includes everything. They are not the same service, so they cannot be compared by total alone. If you ask A to add what is missing, the difference may shrink or disappear.
Reading the numbers carefully
- Price per window or total? Check whether the figure is for one window or the whole set.
- With or without VAT? The difference can mislead when you compare two quotes.
- Discounts. If there is a discount, check whether it depends on deciding quickly. A “today only” discount is a warning sign.
- Extras listed separately. Shutters, insect screens and vents may be on a separate line, or left out.
- Check the sums. Add up the lines. A sum error happens, and it is better to catch it before signing.
How to check it yourself
Take a quote and ask three questions, line by line:
- Is it written? If it was only said aloud, it does not count.
- Can it be confirmed? “Quality frame” cannot be confirmed. A brand and a model can.
- Is it included, yes or no? If it does not say, ask. The answer goes into the quote.
Warning signs
- A single figure, with no list of what it includes.
- A fixed price with nobody seeing the windows or measuring.
- “All included”, but no word on what.
- Pressure: “today only” or “this week only”.
- Not a word about the installation.
- Asking for everything to be paid before starting.
None of these proves by itself that the company is bad. But they are reasons to ask more before you sign.
How to compare
- Ask for at least two or three quotes.
- Use the same sizes, the same material and the same glass in all of them.
- Move each item into a simple table, side by side.
- Where an item is missing, ask whether it is included.
- Compare the warranty and the timing too, not only the total.
To understand what moves the price of each line, see How much do PVC windows cost.
Installation is half the result
The best window loses its value if badly installed: air gets in, water gets in, mould appears. Ask who installs, how they seal and what happens if there is a problem. The Questions for the installer help you learn how the company works. If the quote says nothing about the installation, the answer has to come in writing.
The most common mistakes
- Reading only the last line, the total.
- Accepting a quote with no sizes.
- Signing without asking what you did not understand.
- Comparing quotes for different things.
- Not keeping the quote, the invoice and the warranty.
Reading a quote in ten minutes
- Look at the total and whether it includes VAT.
- Find the list of windows and check the sizes against yours.
- Find the frame brand and the glass.
- Look for the words “removal”, “rubble”, “sealing” and “finishing”.
- Find the warranty and the validity of the quote.
- Underline everything that is missing and ask the questions in writing.
If, at the end, your list of questions is longer than your list of answers, the quote is not ready to sign.
Mini-glossary
- Frame (profile): the window frame.
- Opening (reveal): the hole in the wall where the window sits.
- Tilt-and-turn: opens sideways and also tilts from the top, for airing.
- Hardware: hinges, locks and handles.
- Deposit: part of the price paid when you order.
- VAT: the tax on the sale price. Check whether the price includes it.
What to do next
- Run each quote through the Checklist before hiring.
- Ask the installer the questions still missing.
- Use the calculator for an idea of the cost, and leave your contact if you want us to explain it in plain words.