Clear communication is one of the early steps in planning any commercial fit out. Before hiring a contractor, it is helpful to ask direct questions that give a clear picture of how they work. This also supports better planning and helps match the contractor’s method with the necessities of the site.
What type of projects have you completed before?
Start by asking about their past work. Commercial fit out contractors with experience in shops, offices, or restaurants can explain how they managed those jobs. This gives a better idea of how well they might handle similar tasks or setups in your project.
Who will manage the project on site?
It’s useful to know who will be present each day and how the work will be supervised. Ask if there is a dedicated site manager or if someone from the office will visit regularly. This helps track progress and address any questions while work is ongoing.
Can you share a full breakdown of your quote?
Contractors should be able to explain how their pricing is arranged. This may include labour, materials, deliveries, and any added items. A clear breakdown avoids confusion and helps compare offers from different providers more accurately.
What is your schedule for completing the work?
Ask about the estimated time for finishing the fit out. Check how they break the project into stages and what order they follow. This gives a basic idea of when work starts, what is done first, and how long it may take.
How do you handle changes during the project?
Sometimes, changes are requested after work has started. Ask the contractor how they deal with updates or extra tasks. This includes how they record the change, adjust the cost, and update the work schedule.
Do you use your own team or subcontractors?
Check if the people working on site are part of the company or hired from outside. Ask how they are managed and how their tasks are tracked. This can help with planning visits or setting working hours.
What happens if there are delays or issues?
Delays sometimes happen due to weather, delivery issues, or other work on site. Ask how the contractor plans for such events and what steps they take to get back on track.
