What is a PC Sum and a Provisional Sum allowance?
PC Sum – Prime Cost Item allowance – this is an estimated allowance for the supply of an item, it is generally a reasonable alowance, and allows the builder to complete his quote to you even if you haven’t made all your final selections. For example – if a new bath tub is needed, the builder will allow enough for an average bath tub. As baths can cost anywhere from $400 to $7,000, until you have made a selection the actual price is not known. If you select a bath that is more than the allowed amount, you pay the builder the extra. If it is cheaper than allowed, the builder gives you a credit. It is quite normal to have a large number of PC Sum allowances shown on a quote, you can check if they are adequate by visiting a few showrooms and suppliers. Provisional Sum allowance – this is an estimated allowance for work that involves both supply of material and labour. For example – supply & lay carpet – the builder may base his allowance on the supply of the required square metres for a re
