Avoiding window fitter markup

[bmj1]

OK, so:

 

• I've sourced the windows we like, and negotiated trade pricing with the window manufacturer (which I've had confirmed is the same as any fitter will get).
• ~35 PVC sash windows in total.
• We're in North London

 

Am I crazy to think we can organise measure & fitting of these, and ask our main contractor to order the windows for us supply-only (to save us fronting the VAT) ?

 

When I've tried to source these supply+fit the mark-ups have been really crazy...

[markc]

Do not scrimp on fitting. Yes it can be done cheaper, quicker etc. but we’ll fitted windows will save you a lot of pain in the future

[bmj1]

3 minutes ago, markc said:

Do not scrimp on fitting. Yes it can be done cheaper, quicker etc. but we’ll fitted windows will save you a lot of pain in the future

Understood. But paying tens of thousands feels ludicrous to me for pvc sash windows..

[Temp]

Your main contractor won't put them through his books for nothing. You're expecting him swallow loss of interest on the money, the extra risk and paperwork. He might if you ask him to quote for fitting and pay him for the windows up front.

[bmj1]

36 minutes ago, Temp said:

Your main contractor won't put them through his books for nothing. You're expecting him swallow loss of interest on the money, the extra risk and paperwork. He might if you ask him to quote for fitting and pay him for the windows up front.

That's totally fine. 10% + a fitting charge is totally reasonable. And I'll handle the cashflow.

 

I'm just wondering if this is crazy talk in principle?

[Temp]

9 minutes ago, bmj1 said:

That's totally fine. 10% + a fitting charge is totally reasonable. And I'll handle the cashflow.

 

I'm just wondering if this is crazy talk in principle?

 

It essentially what we did but our main contractor knew from the outset he was fitting the windows.

 

Remember the builder will have to pay the VAT on the windows and reclaim it/deduct it from any VAT he charges on other jobs.

Edited June 18, 2023 by Temp

[nod]

Window fitters are probably the least skilled that you will come across 

Plenty of foam and plenty of excuses 

 When your measuring Do it twice 

Then cut a staff for each window Starting with the largest and working your way down

 

As you say the fitting prices are crazy 

My wife and myself fitted 30 sash windows on our previous build in under two days 

and recently fitted three sets of sliders in an morning The heavy glass was the biggest challenge 

 

[Big Jimbo]

Nice high ceilings, even on the flat parts @nod

[nod]

2 hours ago, Big Jimbo said:

Nice high ceilings, even on the flat parts @nod

Yes 2700 once the floor is in