You do not need every detail sorted before you make contact. But a few useful facts help a contractor understand the job, ask the right questions and work towards a quote that matches your project.

Start with the project basics

Give the project name, town or suburb, and whether it is a new build, fit-out or refurbishment. Include your role and who will make decisions about the scope.

Say whether you need painting, plastering or both. A short description is enough for the first enquiry; Andrew can arrange the next step for plans and documents.

Make the document set clear

For a tender or build, identify the current drawing revision and the relevant specification. If a document has been replaced, make that clear so the price is based on the same information as the rest of the project team.

  • Current plans and relevant finish schedules.
  • Painting and plastering specifications.
  • Areas included in the quote and any exclusions.
  • Required finish levels and paint systems, where specified.
  • Tender closing date and the required quote format.

Explain the site and the programme

Tell the contractor when the work is expected to start, when the areas become available and which dates are fixed. If those dates are provisional, say so.

Mention whether the building will remain occupied, whether work must happen outside normal hours, and whether other trades will be working in the same areas. These are practical scope details, not things to leave until the crew arrives.

Identify who is providing what

Ask the quote to make access, protection, preparation and cleanup allowances clear. On a larger job, confirm which contractor is responsible for each item rather than assuming everyone has allowed for it.

If existing surfaces are involved, describe their condition and any known problems. Site photos can help the first discussion, but may not remove the need for a visit.

Compare the same work

When quotes come back, check the inclusions, exclusions and document revisions alongside the price. A cheaper number may describe a smaller scope; a higher one may include work that another quote leaves out.

Clarify differences before accepting a price. A written scope gives both sides something concrete to work from when the project starts.

THE USEFUL BIT

Location, scope, current documents and key dates make a strong first enquiry. You can work through the remaining details with Andrew.

Your building.
Your next step.

Share the location and a few details. Andrew can talk through the job with you.

Send a commercial project enquiry ↗Commercial painting & plastering ↗