Getting quotes - How much detail do i need to specify?

[jaypee]

Hi All,

I've never had any experience of getting block paving or any groundworks done before so I'm looking for some advice on what I need to specify for a new block paved driveway. I have the intention of contacting three approved installers (each have won awards for my region over the last few years) so I'm confident of receiving a great result.

My intention was to choose the blocks, colour and pattern layout I would like and point out where I would like some kerb beds adding and asking for a drainage channel fitting close to my house. However, on reading quite a lot of topics posted on this forum that uncover poor workmanship how much do I need to specify during the written quotation stage? As I'm a general joe public and have no experience in block paving besides reading the information contained on Tony's website how much detail do I need to go into. E.g. One of the beds with kerbs will have some curving. Do I need to state I don't want mortar joins and all cuts need to be a max of 5mm?

I don't want to come across as being a fussy customer or telling a professional how they should do there job. So I'm asking how much detail do I need to specify during the quotation stage?

Cheers
Jay

[seanandruby]

Your the one paying for a good job so you can specify what you want doing. A good contractor will discuss it with you so they are 100% sure of your wishes. You have to live with the finished job so it needs go be to your satisfaction. I wouldn't think your being fussy at all.

[jaypee]

Thanks for your reply. That's good to know I'm not being overly fussy. I'll see how I get on with the three quotes.