How do you get quotes from tradespeople in Norway?
How to ask for offers, compare them and check the firm.
Short answer
To get quotes from tradespeople in Norway, contact several firms with the same precise job description or post the job on a tender portal, then compare written offers. Forbrukerrådet says the final invoice should not exceed an agreed maximum price, and a price estimate should not be exceeded by more than 15 per cent unless agreed otherwise.
Why
- The Norwegian Consumer Council (Forbrukerrådet) says a good and precise job description makes it easier to compare the offers you collect.
- Forbrukerrådet recommends a progress plan that gives the expected time in working hours, with dates for start, order of work and completion.
- If you pay more than NOK 10,000 in cash, you can be held jointly liable for unpaid tax and duties, according to Forbrukerrådet.
Details
Check that the company is registered in Enhetsregisteret at brreg.no, ask about master craftsman certificates (mesterbrev) and check references, since a seller can be selective about which ones to give. A written contract should cover price, start and completion, payment terms and who is responsible for what, and you can also agree on daily penalties for delay. Mittanbud, one tender portal, says posting a job is free and non-binding and that it requires BankID verification of all businesses.
Tip
Agree on payment in stages that follow the progress plan, so you do not pay in advance for work that is not delivered as agreed.
What may differ
If no price has been agreed at all, Forbrukerrådet says the price is calculated in the usual way for similar services. For work that needs a permit from the municipality, the firm must also have sufficient approval.
People also ask
- How do I compare quotes from builders in Norway?
Sources
- Forbrukerrådet: Checklist before you choose a tradespersonChecked at:
- Forbrukerrådet: Using a tradespersonChecked at:
- MittanbudChecked at:
This answer is for reference only. Rules can change, so check Forbrukerrådet before you sign a contract.
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