MyBuildAlly vs Online Cost Calculators
Generic calculators give you a number. MyBuildAlly analyses your actual quote and tells you what's missing, what's overpriced, and what to ask your builder.
We analyse YOUR quote, not just give generic estimates.
Feature comparison
| Feature | MyBuildAlly | Online Calculators |
|---|---|---|
| Analyses your actual builder quote | ||
| Quote upload (PDF, photo, Word doc) | ||
| Scope gap detection | ||
| Trade-by-trade cost comparison | ||
| Personalised to your location | ||
| Generic per-sqm estimates | ||
| No signup required | ||
| Benchmark-based quote analysis |
The problem with generic calculators
They don't see your quote
A calculator asks for size and location, then multiplies by a per-sqm rate. It can't tell you if your builder has missed structural steel, underestimated groundworks, or included items you don't need.
One number isn't enough
Knowing that “a 30m² extension costs £35,000-£55,000” is a wide range. You need to know whether the specific £48,000 quote on your desk is fair, and that means looking at each trade line by line.
They miss scope gaps
The most expensive surprises aren't overpriced line items, they're missing ones. Drainage, building control fees, or scaffolding omitted from a quote can add thousands to your final bill.
Frequently asked questions
How is MyBuildAlly different from a cost calculator?
Cost calculators give you a rough estimate based on size and location. MyBuildAlly analyses your actual builder's quote, comparing each line item against UK cost benchmarks and flagging missing scope items. It's the difference between a generic guess and a personalised second opinion.
Are online cost calculators accurate?
Generic calculators can give you a ballpark figure, but they can't account for your specific specification, site conditions, or builder's pricing. They're useful for very early budgeting but shouldn't replace proper quote analysis.
Can I use both?
Absolutely. Use a cost calculator for initial budgeting, then use MyBuildAlly to analyse actual quotes when builders come back to you. The two tools serve different stages of the project.
Go beyond a generic estimate
Upload your builder's quote for a personalised independent analysis with trade-by-trade cost benchmarks and scope review.
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