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A Provisional Sum is an estimated allowance included in a quotation or construction contract for work that cannot be accurately priced at the time the quote is prepared. It covers work where the exact scope, quantity, or method is still unknown.
Provisional Sums are commonly used on commercial projects and larger construction works where some elements of the project cannot be fully assessed until work begins.
For residential resin driveway installations, they are less common but may be included if there is uncertainty about the condition of the existing ground or the amount of groundwork that will be required.
When Is a Provisional Sum Used?
A contractor may include a Provisional Sum when it isn’t possible to provide a fixed price before the project starts. Common examples include:
- Unknown ground conditions beneath an existing driveway.
- Additional excavation that may be required.
- Hidden drainage issues.
- Repairing unexpected damage to the existing base.
- Landscaping or additional works that have not yet been finalised.
Once the work has been inspected and the actual requirements are known, the Provisional Sum is adjusted to reflect the true cost of completing that part of the project.
Why Are Provisional Sums Important?
Provisional Sums allow a project to move forward even when some details cannot be confirmed in advance. Rather than guessing the cost or including an unnecessarily high fixed price, they provide a realistic allowance until the exact work can be measured.
For homeowners, it’s important to understand that a Provisional Sum is not a fixed price. The final amount may be lower or higher depending on what is actually required once work begins.
A good contractor should clearly explain what the allowance covers and notify you before carrying out any work that changes the final cost.
How Resin Driveway Ireland Minimises Provisional Sums
We carry out detailed site surveys before preparing a quotation so we can provide accurate pricing wherever possible. By assessing the existing driveway, drainage, and ground conditions, we’re often able to avoid unnecessary provisional allowances.
If there is an element of the project that cannot be confirmed until excavation begins, we’ll explain this clearly in advance and discuss any changes with you before additional work is carried out.
Our aim is to provide transparent quotations with as few unknowns as possible, giving you confidence in both the price and the installation process.
Looking for a clear resin driveway quotation with no hidden surprises?
