Build your project brief

Describe the job once, in your own words. Save it for your shortlist or write to the business you picked, then send it yourself.

What a good brief includes

• The problem in one sentence, and how long it has been happening.
• Where you are: city and zip. Your street address can wait.
• What you want: a repair, a replacement or a second opinion.
• When: this week, this month or no rush.
• How you'd like the first answer: a rough number by phone, or a visit.

That's enough for a business to say yes, no or "here's a rough number". The rest belongs in the conversation, after you've checked the license.

Before you accept a quote

1. Get the scope, exclusions and materials in writing.
2. Ask who handles permits and inspections for your address.
3. Ask if the estimate has a fee, and how changes get approved.
4. Compare the same scope from each business, then check license and insurance.