Choosing A Reputable Surfacing Firm for a Residential Project

It’s unfortunate that surfacing residential driveways as a trade has managed to attract a very poor reputation both in the building industry and with potential customers alike. There’s a perception that poor workmanship from cowboy builders is almost the norm. But that doesn’t have to be the case. Here, we look at ways you can protect your investment in driveway surfacing and ensure you benefit from a job well done.

Select an Established Surfacing Firm With a Good Track Record Locally

One of the first recommendations made by professional trade organisations is don’t just agree to have the work done by someone who calls at your door and offers you a bargain price. Do your own research on firms that operate locally and have an established, physical presence (like an office). That way, you have recourse if something goes wrong further down the line.

Accreditations are great, but there’s really no substitute for experience. Look for a surfacing company that’s been around a while and has tons of experience in the trade. You’re more likely to get a professional finish from a firm of experts, obviously.

Next, don’t just be wowed by a good-looking website. While it’s one indicator of a quality firm, you should also expect a website to be informative, so you get a feel for the company. Check out their online portfolio: can they demonstrate a range of successful surfacing projects, including driveways like your own?

Get a Tailored, Itemised Quote

Then, speak to any firm you’re considering hiring. They should come out and inspect the job before giving you a quote. This means that not only will you get a more accurate estimate than if they just ‘guess’, without seeing the site. It also gives you a chance to get a feel for whether you’d be happy to have them on your property for the duration of the work. Ask as many questions as you like about the project – how will they approach the job and what preparation might the ground, for instance? Do they sound knowledgeable, professional, friendly and prepared to explain – without jargon – what you’ll be paying for?

Ensure the quote you are given is fully itemised and includes materials, so you know how much the job will cost and that there won’t be any nasty surprises further down the line. Check what their payment terms are, and always be wary of a firm that asks for cash in hand, rather than other, more secure methods of payment.

Ask whether planning permission might be needed, and expect them to know the answer – as well as helping to handle the paperwork if the local authority need to be involved.

Establish what guarantees the company offers on work carried out, and ask about the insurances they hold – if anyone is injured while building work is in progress, or there’s an issue with the work carried out further down the line, you want to be sure you and they are covered. You may also need to inform your own home insurance company that you’re having work done – the surfacing firm will advise on this.

These are just a few handy hints on what to check before hiring a company. Finally, though, reputable companies will also be able to offer testimonials from past clients, so you can assure yourself of the quality of the work you’ll get.