How to use this resource
- Read it on screen, or print it (Cmd/Ctrl + P) or save it as a PDF straight from your browser — nothing is gated and no sign-up is needed.
- Use it before speaking with professionals, to organise your thinking and arrive with clear, specific notes.
- Copy it by hand into a notebook if you prefer — the structure matters more than the format.
- Treat it as a planning aid, not a contract or a substitute for licensed professional advice.
Access
- Clear access to the affected area
- Parking or entry arrangements
- Pets secured and children supervised
- Someone available to explain the issue
Photos and notes
- Dated photos of the issue
- Documentation of when it started and changes
- Notes on timing, weather or usage context
- Location and what is nearby/above
History
Previous repairs or relevant work.
Questions to ask
What you want to understand from the visit.
Budget framing (categories, not amounts)
Think in categories and priorities — this is not a request to state a number.
- Must-fix versus can-wait items
- Whether to assess now and quote later
- How changes would be agreed
- Whether other issues are worth checking while on site
Safety concerns
Anything potentially hazardous to flag in advance.
Documentation to keep
Frequently asked questions
Questions about this resource
Is this a contract or quote request?
No. It is an educational planning aid to help you prepare for a visit. Any agreement or quote is separate and should be handled appropriately with the professional.
Should I state my budget?
You do not need to state a number. Thinking in categories and priorities — must-fix versus can-wait — usually leads to a clearer conversation than a single figure.
Does Build Design Hub recommend contractors?
No. Build Design Hub does not verify, endorse or recommend specific contractors. Independent verification of credentials and references remains with you.
Keep planning
Related guides, tools and resources
Free planning resources →The hub for all free templates and planning resources.Home problem documentation template →Document the issue before the visit.Contractor comparison checklist →Compare contractors on the same scope and terms.Renovation contractors →How renovation contractors work and how to prepare.Contractor hiring checklist (tool) →Due-diligence checklist for hiring.Project budget planner (tool) →Frame a budget in categories before you commit.