Dont be afraid to ask
Getting the painters and decorators in'. It's a nightmare for some people. Especially if you don't know anyone who could do it for you, and can't do it yourself. But here are some tips:
1) It is cheaper if you provide the material. Buy the paint, wall paper or whatever yourself. It's a shame because the handy wo/man will probably get a discount at a cash and carry store but will charge you 20% on top for having to go and buy it!
2) Ask for a written quote that is broken down very clearly into parts/materials and labour. Ask the expert to explain why it will take 4 days to paint your porch, etc.
3) Think about an hourly rate that you would be happy to pay an expert to do the job for you. Find out how long the job is going to take and then do the maths. Either you haven't got the money to have the work done (you'll have to do it yourself) or the expert is charging too much.
4) Make sure the expert knows that it is not a quote for an insurance company (they are normally about 30% more expensive).
5) Ask how much for cash. The VAT man won't like this, but it's often a cheaper way around.
If you find that you can't afford to pay someone to do it for you and that you have to do it yourself, remember two things; always read and follow the instructions very carefully on everything from hanging wall paper to erecting a ladder and never take a short cut - you will only end up having to do it again.
Reproduced with the permission of Dooyoo UK Ltd