What are Prime Cost Items and Provisional Sums?
A Prime Cost item is a builder’s estimate of the cost of delivering and fitting of appliances, or other such items, which you have not selected at the time of signing the contract. If the actual cost is less than the estimate, you will receive cover for the difference and if the cost is more, then you pay the difference. A Provisional Sum is a builder’s estimate of labour and costs such as those associated with foundation works. They include both the builder’s and third party costs. Both Prime Cost items and Provisional Sums should be listed separately in your contract.
