Chay Hedger Ltd - Building Contractors

26/12/2025

Architects draw the dream. We scope the build.
Plans are design-led — and that’s great; but builders price from clear scope and allowances. We bridge that gap with plain-English scope + estimate so contractor quotes are like-for-like and surprises are fewer.
See how it works:

19/10/2025

Notice of Essential Repair Works - Ryder Memorial

We would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused while essential repair works are carried out on the Ryder memorial.

To ensure the safety of both workers and the public, traffic control measures will be in place during this period. At times, it may appear that no work is being carried out on site. Please be assured that this is a normal part of the restoration process - some elements of the project, such as the preparation and repair of timber components, must be completed off site.

As with many restoration works, unforeseen issues may arise once the project begins. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work through these, and we will do our utmost to complete the repairs as efficiently and with as little disruption as possible.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

03/06/2025

PC Sum vs. Provisional Sum: The Quote Terms That Could Blow Your Budget

If you're planning a home extension or renovation, you'll likely receive several quotes from different builders. But how do you compare them? Beyond the grand total, there are two key terms that can make or break your budget — PC Sum and Provisional Sum.

In this guide, we’ll break them down so you can protect your budget and choose the right contractor with confidence.

🧾 What Is a PC Sum?

PC Sum stands for Prime Cost Sum. It’s a placeholder amount included in your quote for items that you, the client, will choose later. For example:

- Kitchen appliances
- Bathroom fixtures
- Tiles and flooring
- Light fittings

The builder doesn’t know what style, finish, or brand you’ll pick, so they insert a reasonable allowance.

🔍 Example: The quote includes a PC Sum of £1,500 for a bathroom suite. If you later choose one that costs £2,000, you’ll pay the £500 difference — plus any mark-up or installation cost adjustments.

🛠️ What Is a Provisional Sum?
A Provisional Sum is a budget for work that might be needed, but which can’t be confirmed until the project is underway.

This often includes:

- Foundations (when ground conditions are unknown)
- Structural supports revealed during demolition
- Drainage inspection, rerouting

🔍 Example: Your quote includes a Provisional Sum of £3,000 for additional foundation work. Once the builder digs down and confirms the ground is solid, this might drop to £1,500 — or increase to £5,000 if issues are found.

⚠️ Why These Terms Matter to You
When comparing quotes, it’s tempting to look only at the total figure. But here’s what happens if you're not careful:

Builder A
£35,000 Total Quote
PC Sum: £4,000 realistic
Provisional Sum: £3,000 clear

Builder B
£32,000 Total Quote
PC Sum: £1,500 low
Provisional Sum: not listed

Builder B seems cheaper — until you start choosing nicer finishes or hit unexpected structural issues. Then the cost balloons beyond Builder A’s quote.

✅ What to Do:

Ask your builder to explain each PC Sum and whether it reflects your likely choices

Request clarification or backup for Provisional Sums

Don’t be afraid to ask what’s included and what’s not

📄 Pro Tip:
The most detailed and transparent quote isn’t always the cheapest — but it’s often the most honest. That’s what protects your budget.

16/05/2025

STARTING A RENOVATION OR EXTENSION PROJECT?

Welcome to the first post in our new series: “What Every Homeowner Should Know Before Building”.

Let’s kick off with something most people get stuck on — reading a construction quote.

When you get quotes from builders, it’s tempting to focus on the bottom line — the price. But that number can be misleading if you don’t know what’s included, excluded, or buried in vague terms.

Here’s what you should always look for in a quote:
✅ Clear breakdown of materials and labour
✅ Mention of PC Sums or Provisional Sums (they can swing your budget)!
✅ Start & finish dates — or at least estimated timelines
✅ What’s included in “preliminaries”
✅ Payment schedule and terms

Watch out for vague line items like “bathroom fit-out – £5,000” without details. Is it just labour? Are the tiles included? These gaps often lead to disputes or extra charges.

A well-detailed quote isn’t just about clarity — it’s a sign of a professional builder who takes your project seriously.

👉 We're passionate about making building projects smoother, clearer, and more successful for homeowners. Learn more about our business on our website:
www.chayhedger.co.uk

Follow this page for the next post in our series:

PC Sum vs. Provisional Sum – What’s the Real Difference?

01/04/2025