Requesting a renovation quote
Published: 31 October 2026.
Are you planning a complete home renovation, an extension, a roof addition or a commercial refurbishment? A contractor can assess your enquiry more effectively when your goals, available information and open decisions are clear. You do not need to have every answer yet. Use this checklist to prepare for an initial discussion and a suitable quote.
1. Describe the purpose and scope of the work
Explain which rooms or parts of the property you want to change and what you want to achieve. Are you considering a shell extension, a fully finished addition or a wider renovation that also includes a kitchen or bathroom? Mention any work you plan to do yourself or commission separately. This helps define what should be included in the enquiry.
2. Share the location and existing conditions
Tell us where the project is located and describe the property: an existing home, a new-build home or commercial premises. Photos of the current situation help explain your plans. Access, available space, existing services and the condition of the building can affect the approach. An initial description is enough; as the plan develops, a survey of the existing building may be needed.
3. Share drawings and measurements if you have them
A floor plan, sketch or set of building drawings shows the dimensions and layout you have in mind. Say whether the drawings are final or still likely to change. If you do not have drawings yet, explain what is known and which design questions you want to discuss. You can also read which building drawings are useful for a renovation.
4. Set out your main choices and priorities
Separate essential requirements from features you would like to add. Think about the layout, standard of materials, insulation, building services and finishes. If you have not chosen materials yet, say so. An open decision is easier to discuss than two quotes based on different finishes.
5. Share your budget and preferred schedule
A rough budget helps us discuss which approach fits your plans. Include costs beyond the building work, such as design, drawings and finishes. If you have not set a figure yet, say so. Also tell us when you hope to start and whether a move, opening date or other deadline matters. For financial planning, see our guide to renovation costs and budgeting for more information.
6. Explain the permit status
Tell us whether you already have a permit, are preparing an application or do not yet know what your project requires. Requirements vary by project and location. Our article about the permit check for a renovation explains where to check. An uncertain permit status need not delay your initial enquiry.
What should you check when comparing quotes?
Check that each quote is based on the same drawings, scope and finishes. Look at what is included, which choices remain provisional or are covered by allowances, and what falls outside the price. Discuss the schedule, how changes will be handled and who is responsible for each part of the preparation. This lets you compare the proposals themselves, not just their totals.
Discuss your plans with Ponto Services
You can contact us even if you only have an early sketch. Tell us your plans, location, rough budget, preferred start date and permit status. Add drawings or photos if available. Send Ponto Services your project enquiry; we can then advise which information is needed for a follow-up discussion.
