Ask for an itemised BOQ
A BOQ lists each work item, quantity and rate. Compare quotes line by line rather than by total, because a low total often hides excluded items.
Check completed work
Ask to see completed projects similar to yours and, where possible, speak to previous clients. Online reviews that name the type of work and location are more useful than generic praise.
Understand supervision and payments
Find out who manages the site daily, how progress is reported and how payments are linked to completed milestones. Clear answers here prevent most disputes later.