What should I include when asking for a trade quote?

Explain what needs to be done, the property and access details, the full postcode, timing, photographs where useful, and anything that may affect materials or the scope.

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ONEBOX practical guide

How to request and compare a trade quote.

A useful quote starts before the price appears. Clear information helps a Professional understand the real job, identify what still needs checking and explain what is included before you decide.

Describe what needs to be done

Start with the problem, not the solution

Explain what you can see, when it started and what outcome you need. You do not need to diagnose the fault yourself. “Water is appearing below the kitchen sink when the tap runs” is more useful than guessing which pipe or fitting has failed.

For planned work, describe the existing condition and the intended result. Mention whether items are being repaired, replaced, supplied by you or expected from the Professional.

Seven details that make a quote more useful

1. Exact scope

List each task and separate essential work from optional improvements. For several small jobs, provide one complete list.

2. Photos and measurements

Add clear photographs of the problem and surrounding area. Include approximate measurements where size affects access, materials or preparation.

3. Property type

Say whether it is a house, flat, period property, listed building, business premises or managed block. Mention known restrictions.

4. Access

Include stairs, floor level, lifts, narrow access, parking, loading, permits, keys and any limits on working hours.

5. Location

Provide the full postcode. Travel, parking and local access can affect whether a Professional can take the work and how it is priced.

6. Timing

Explain whether the work is urgent, tied to another contractor, available only on certain days or flexible.

7. Known history

Mention previous repairs, recurring faults, relevant certificates, warranties or work already attempted.

Quote or estimate?

An estimate is an informed indication when the Professional cannot yet confirm the complete scope. A quote should relate to a clearer agreed scope. Ask whether the price is fixed, what assumptions it depends on and what circumstances could require a revised quote.

Some work cannot be priced responsibly from a short description. A survey, diagnostic visit or further evidence may be necessary before the final scope is known.

Compare the same job, not just the final number

A lower total may exclude work, materials or making good that another quote includes. Compare:

the exact work and materials included;
anything specifically excluded;
whether VAT is included where applicable;
start dates, estimated duration and dependencies;
deposit, staged payment and completion terms;
waste removal, preparation and making good;
the relevant insurance, qualifications or registrations;
what happens if the scope changes after work begins.

Do not treat a ONEBOX profile or match as a substitute for your own decision. Review the scope, evidence and final price before approving a booking. Regulated work may require specific qualifications or registration.

Questions to ask before approval

Is this a quote or an estimate?
What exactly is included and excluded?
Who supplies the materials, and which materials are assumed?
Does the work require a certificate, approval or specialist registration?
What could change the price or timescale?
When is payment due?
How will changes be agreed and recorded?

Local details that often matter

Bath: period or listed properties, hills, restricted access and limited parking can affect preparation and arrival. Explore services in Bath.

Bristol: the postcode, property type, parking or loading arrangements and access through shared buildings can shape the assessment. Explore services in Bristol.

London: congestion, parking controls, floor level, lifts, managed-building rules and working-hour restrictions should be shared early. Explore services in London.

Independent UK consumer guidance

ONEBOX is building its own process around clear requests and recorded decisions. For independent guidance, consult:

Frequently asked questions

What should I include when asking for a quote?

Explain the work, property and access details, full postcode, timing, photographs where useful, and anything that may affect materials or scope.

Is a quote the same as an estimate?

No. An estimate is an informed indication when the full scope is not yet known. Check what any quote includes, excludes and what could change the price.

Should I choose the cheapest quote?

Not automatically. Compare the same scope, materials, exclusions, timing, payment terms, relevant credentials and evidence.