Define the project
Describe the outcome, priorities and constraints before requesting quotes.
Read the guideA clearer start for your renovation.
Practical planning guides to help you define the work, compare proposals and prepare useful questions before a project begins.
Start with the decisions that matter
Compare the full proposal
Read scope, assumptions, allowances and responsibilities together.
Read the guidePrepare the right questions
Keep permissions, services and professional checks on the agenda.
Read the guideSeparate needs from wishes
Start with the change you need the room to support. Keep that purpose beside a short list of priorities, things to retain and decisions that can wait.
A useful brief gives the next conversation a common starting point. Add measurements and relevant documents where you have them, and mark what still needs checking.
Keep assumptions visible
A planning allowance, a supplier proposal and an agreed scope describe different things. Read the work, exclusions, responsibilities and open questions together before comparing headline amounts.
Keep the latest brief and proposal in the same place. When something is unclear, record the question and who will confirm it instead of filling the gap with a guess.
Agree how changes are handled
Work out how proposed changes will be described, reviewed and recorded before the project becomes busy. Keep their effects on the work, timing and payment discussion visible.
Use these guides to prepare questions for the relevant people. Actual permissions, materials, technical requirements and written agreements need review for the project and its location.
Put your starting scope on paper
Organize a project area, your planning allowance and the priority to discuss with your chosen professionals.
Read how to use itA small, useful tool
Build a project scope note
Enter your own planning allowance. The result uses a fixed illustrative 70/15/15 worksheet split, rather than a contractor quote or cost estimate.