This arrived in my in-box during the week: “Good morning, my name is John. I would like to know the estimated labour costs per square metre for installation of a deck with my materials.”
I will help John, but please don’t fall into the square metre trap if you are planning to have work done. If you are a contractor, don’t quote per square metre.
Where does the square metre area start? Is it inside the wall or outside the wall, how high are the walls going to be etc, etc.
A quote must be given per item for the work to be done, with full specification. I am also not a fan of labour-only work as you now have two parties responsible for getting the job done.
So, to repeat what I have been saying over the years, get an approved plan drawn by a qualified professional; provide full and detailed specifications of what you are looking for; get at least three quotes from reputable and recommended companies and then sign a contract.
* If you have a question for Don, please send it to [email protected] or SMS only to 0824463859.