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Fit-out & finishing

Why do fit-out costs rise after signing — and how to read a quote before you sign

Most fit-out cost increases aren’t real surprises — they’re items that were never written clearly. Here’s what to check before you sign.

By Azm team1 min read

Cost increases during a fit-out are one of the biggest worries for project owners. In reality, most of them can be anticipated — and prevented — by reading the quotation carefully.

1. Is it itemised, or a lump sum?

A quote that says “complete floor fit-out” for a single figure leaves plenty of room for disagreement later. Ask for an itemised quote with quantities and units, so you know exactly what you are paying for.

2. Are materials specified by name and spec?

“First-grade porcelain” is not enough. Ask for size, source and price range — or a clear provisional sum for any material not yet selected.

3. What is excluded?

Exclusions are the number-one source of variation orders. Check whether MEP works, permits, final cleaning and debris removal are included.

4. How will extra work be priced?

Agree up front on how any additional work is priced, and that it must be approved in writing before it starts.


At Azm we provide an itemised proposal with materials before any commitment — because clarity at the start is the best protection for your budget.

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