A little preparation before a tradesperson arrives can make the difference between a smooth job and a frustrating one. Tradespeople work most efficiently when the site is ready, the scope is clear, and access is sorted. Here is everything you should do before they turn up.
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Find a tradesperson — freeConfirm the scope in writing before the day
Before the job begins, make sure you have a written quote or schedule of works that both you and the tradesperson have agreed to. This does not need to be a legal contract — even an email exchange is valuable. It should cover what work will be done, what materials will be used, the agreed price, the expected timeline, and the payment schedule.
A written agreement — even a simple one — is your most effective protection against scope creep, misunderstandings, and disputes about what was agreed.
— Federation of Master Builders
Clear the work area
Move furniture, rugs, ornaments, and anything fragile well away from the work area. If the tradesperson is working on plumbing or electrics, identify which isolation valves or circuit breakers are relevant and make sure they are accessible. For larger jobs, consider whether items in adjacent rooms need protection from dust or vibration.
Lay dust sheets early
Even if the tradesperson brings their own, having dust sheets down before they arrive protects flooring from boot marks, tool drops, and material spills that happen before they get set up.
Sort out parking and access
If you live on a busy road or in a permit zone, check whether the tradesperson will need to park a van and unload materials. Some councils allow temporary suspension of parking restrictions for building work — apply at least a week in advance. Also confirm exactly how the tradesperson will access the property if you will not be home all day.
Protect children, pets, and vulnerable people
Active building work creates genuine hazards — sharp tools, open floor voids, exposed wiring, and chemicals. Make sure children and pets cannot access the work area unsupervised. If elderly relatives live in the property, consider whether the disruption to heating, water, or electricity will affect their wellbeing during the works.
Agree on waste removal and deliveries
Ask who is responsible for removing waste, and where it will go. Will the tradesperson take it away, or do you need to arrange a skip? If materials are being delivered, who will be on site to receive them? Agree these details in advance to avoid the job stalling on day one.
- Confirm start time and expected duration
- Ensure relevant meters/isolation valves are accessible
- Have a contact number in case of questions
- Identify where the tradesperson can make tea/coffee
- Agree whether you need to be present at all times