What to ask before hiring a renovation
Scope, timings, materials and way of working: the questions that clear up almost everything.
In this article
Before hiring someone to work in your home, it is worth asking a few questions. They are not meant to catch anyone out: they make sure you both understand the same thing. Clear answers are a good sign.
About the job
- What exactly does the price include, and what not?
- Do you need to see the property, or are photos and measurements enough?
- What do I need to prepare before you arrive?
About who does it
Ask who will be working in your home and who your contact person will be. On jobs with several trades, make clear who coordinates the plumber, the electrician or the tiler.
- Do you do it yourselves or subcontract it?
- Are the installations done by a licensed professional?
- Who do I call if I have a question during the works?
About timing
A realistic timeframe is worth more than an optimistic one. Ask how long each stage takes, what could delay it and how many days you will be without a kitchen or bathroom, if that applies.
Tip
Ask for the timeframe and start date to be written into the quote. If they depend on a material arriving, that should be written too.
About money
- How is it paid: deposit, by stage, at the end?
- Which payment methods do you accept?
- How are changes that come up during the work priced?
We'll help you define the scope of your renovation and prepare a clear quote.
About what happens afterwards
Ask what warranty the work has and what happens if a door drops or a joint fails after a few weeks. Also who takes away the packaging and rubble, and whether the final clean is included.
About permits and the community
Depending on the town and the type of work, a notice or permit from the council may be needed. Ask who handles it and whether the residents’ association needs to be told.
What you should be clear about at the end
- What is done and what is left out
- Who works and who your contact is
- Timeframe and start date in writing
- Payment terms and how changes are priced
- Warranty, cleaning and permits
Founder of OSTEZA. I assemble kitchens and furniture, organise moves and coordinate the professionals on each job on the Costa Blanca. I write about what I see in homes every week.