How should I compare provisional allowances within building quotations?

Unpack each allowance

A provisional allowance may stand in for work or selections that are not yet fully defined. Ask what the allowance covers, how it was estimated and whether it includes supply, delivery, installation, preparation, waste, taxes or other components. These inclusions vary, so require each bidder to state them rather than assuming a standard meaning.

Request the quantities, quality level, product assumptions and exclusions behind each item. Ask how actual cost will be evidenced, what contractor charges or adjustments may apply and who approves a change before commitment. Clarify whether unused allowance is credited and how any overrun is handled under the proposed contract.

Compare on a like-for-like basis

Prepare a table listing each allowance beside its description, assumptions and unresolved decisions. A lower figure may reflect a narrower scope or different quality assumption rather than a better offer. Ask bidders to price clearly defined alternatives where feasible, and flag work that is not included at all.

Have an architect or engineer help define technical scope where necessary, and ask a Greek lawyer to review the contract mechanism for adjustments and approvals. Do not infer a final project cost from provisional sums. Keep selection approvals and actual expenditure records together so changes can be traced against the agreed process.