What Your Tradie Wishes You Knew Before Quoting

3rd July 2024 - By Danelle Vanstone

As the warmer months arrive, the surge in home improvement projects begins. For many homeowners, this is the prime time for renovations and updates, which means an increase in inquiries for Tradies. Certified Competent recognises this seasonal uptick and aims to streamline the quoting process for both homeowners and Tradies. To facilitate smoother interactions and more efficient project starts, here’s a comprehensive guide to what Tradies wish their clients would know before reaching out for a quote.

Understanding Project Needs: First and foremost, having a clear understanding of what you need helps tremendously. Before contacting a professional, consider these essential elements:

• Rough measurements

Knowing the approximate size of the space you want to work on, and even the new product or installation, can help the installer provide a more accurate initial quote.

• Clear Budge Range

Understand your financial boundaries for the project. Having a clear budget in mind and communicating this upfront can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure the proposals you receive are realistically aligned with your financial expectations.

• Project Timeline

Be aware of any deadlines or preferred timelines. This helps installers assess their availability and schedule your project appropriately.

• Knowledge of Permits

Depending on the nature of your renovations, certain permits may be required. Familiarising yourself with these requirements can expedite the process and ensure work is completed lawfully.

• Past Issues with Current Installations

If you’ve had problems or concerns in the past, let the installer know. This information can guide the choice of materials and installation techniques.

• Preferred Materials and Styles

Have an idea of what materials and styles you prefer. Whether it’s energy-efficient products or a particular look or material, understanding your aesthetic and functional preferences makes the selection process smoother.

• Access and Logistics Info

Consider the accessibility of your home. Information about parking availability, entry points, and other logistical details can help in planning the execution of the job.

• Inspiration Photos or References

If you have specific designs in mind, sharing these with your installer can ensure you’re both on the same page about the expected outcomes.

To further aid in your preparation, consider these additional aspects:

• Marketplace Understanding

Do some research on potential companies. Understanding how smaller, local businesses stack up against larger firms can influence your choice based on your project’s needs.

• Customer Journey Awareness

Familiarise yourself with the typical workflow from the initial quote to the project’s completion. Knowing what to expect at each stage, including deposits, contract signing, and final inspections, can reduce anxiety and set clear expectations.

Recognising that people absorb information in various ways, Certified Competent is developing short, digestible video content to explain each step of the customer journey. These videos aim to provide quick and easy-to-understand information, accessible directly via our Instagram @certifiedcompetent

The Bottom Line? By preparing using this guide, homeowners can approach renovation projects more confidently and effectively. Clear communication and understanding your responsibilities can significantly enhance the efficiency of the quoting process, allowing for a smoother transition into the actual work phase. This preparation not only helps homeowners but also assists Tradies in providing the best possible service tailored to your specific needs. For further insights and detailed guides, take a further look around our blogs, and check out our Instagram to make the most of your home improvement endeavours this summer.