Things were now getting interesting. Keith issued tender documents to three builders for quotations and once they had been returned we gathered again to consider the options. One quote was considerably cheaper than the other two, while one was way over the top. The middle one was more detailed than the others and was from a contractor with whom he worked well, so inevitably we were steered in his direction. However, the cost was quite a bit more than anticipated, but was manageable - if we sold our house in good time.
The frame was to come from a manufacturer who used the Tradis system which would arrive on site via a large lorry and would be craned into position. Unfortunately, the lead time was going to be considerable, so we got a quote from the contractor for a frame built on site (stick build) which was £10k cheaper, but would be of the same quality. Then just as we were about to decide in favour of stick built the frame factory found a spare slot. It was an awkward moment - we didn't want to jeopardise Keith's relationship with either party, but the thought of saving £10k was persuasive.
So the contract was signed, an itemised schedule of the works and costs printed and completion was to be within 40 weeks.
