Compare like with like
Check whether proposals include partitions, ceilings, electrical work, air-conditioning alterations, furniture, IT and professional coordination. Record exclusions alongside the price.
Separate decisions from allowances
Identify provisional items and unresolved specifications. A lower initial allowance may simply defer a decision rather than reduce its eventual cost.
Plan for the programme
Long-lead furniture, building restrictions and phased access can affect cost. Discuss these early and agree a process for approving changes.