Frequently asked
The questions worth asking any contractor
These come up on almost every enquiry we take. We have answered them in full rather than in the vague way that keeps options open.
Quotations and pricing
- Is a quotation free, and is it binding?
- Survey and quotation are free and carry no obligation. The quotation is fixed for the scope described in it. If the scope changes — because you change your mind, or because something genuinely unforeseen is uncovered — that is priced as a variation and agreed in writing before the work is done.
- How quickly will I receive a price?
- Standard domestic works are quoted within three to five working days of the survey. Larger projects involving engineers or multiple consultants take longer, and we will tell you at survey stage which applies to you.
- Why is your quotation itemised rather than a single figure?
- Because a single figure cannot be compared. Itemising preparation, materials and labour lets you see exactly what is and is not included, and makes it obvious where a cheaper quotation has left something out.
- Do you ask for a deposit?
- For projects requiring materials to be ordered in advance, yes — a stage payment schedule is set out in the quotation before you commit. We do not ask for large up-front payments against work that has not started.
Working with us
- Who will actually be on site?
- Our own team, led by the contracts manager named in your quotation. Where a specialist is required — a structural engineer, a scaffolder, a Gas Safe or NICEIC-registered engineer — we tell you who they are and remain responsible for coordinating them.
- Can we stay in the property during the work?
- In most cases yes. We agree a sequence that keeps usable rooms available, protect floors and furniture, contain dust-generating work, and clean down each evening. For major structural works we will tell you honestly if staying is impractical.
- How will I know what is happening?
- You get a short weekly update covering what was completed, what is next and anything needing a decision from you, plus direct contact with your contracts manager rather than a general enquiries line.
- What happens if I am not happy with something?
- Tell us during the job rather than at the end. Anything not to the standard set out in the quotation is put right at our cost. Snagging is carried out and closed before we issue the final invoice.
Regulations and protection
- Do you handle planning and building control?
- We establish what your project needs at survey stage and manage the building control process for works we carry out, coordinating inspections at the required hold points. Where a planning application or party wall award is needed we tell you clearly and work alongside your consultants.
- Are you insured?
- Yes — public liability and employer's liability cover is in place on every project. Certificates are available on request, and we would encourage you to ask any contractor for them before work starts.
- Is your work guaranteed?
- Workmanship is covered after handover, and the period that applies to your project is stated in your quotation. Manufacturer warranties on materials and installed products are passed through to you at handover.
- How do you handle waste and site safety?
- Waste is removed by licensed carriers with transfer documentation retained. Sites are set up with access, protection and safe working at height planned before work begins rather than improvised on the day.
Coverage and availability
- Which areas do you cover?
- We work across London and the surrounding counties. If you are near the edge of our coverage, call and ask — we will give you a straight answer rather than travel to a survey we cannot service properly.
- How far ahead are you booked?
- Lead times vary by discipline and season. Maintenance and decorating work can usually be scheduled sooner than structural projects, and we will give you a realistic start date rather than an optimistic one.
- Do you take on small jobs?
- Yes. Small works and single repairs are welcome — a large proportion of our long-term maintenance clients came to us with one job first.
Still have a question?
Ask it directly — we would rather answer it now than at week three. Call 07490 623966 or send us the details.