Who Supplies Materials for a Trade Job? Customer and Professional Checklist

Ask for the product specification, finish and quantity to be included in the quote. Establish whether sourcing, delivery and handling are included and how substitutions will be approved. A brand name or colour description alone may not identify the exact product.

Ask who will retain receipts, register products where appropriate and resolve delivery problems. Agree what happens to unused materials and whether any return credit changes the final bill.

Send the proposed product details to the installer before ordering. Confirm dimensions, compatibility, quantities and any accessories needed. A customer-selected tap, floor covering or door may need extra components or preparation that photographs do not reveal.

Ask when materials must be on site and who checks them. Discuss the cost of a wasted appointment if essential parts are missing, and record any agreement before work is booked.

Identify a delivery contact, safe unloading point and storage area. Heavy, fragile or weather-sensitive products may need particular handling. Check whether delivery is to the kerb or to a room, and whether the professional has allowed time or equipment to move items.

For occupied homes, agree how walkways, pets and access will be managed. Do not assume the installer can accept a delivery on a day they are not scheduled to attend.

Photograph visible damage and retain packaging and order details. Contact the supplier and tell the professional promptly. Agree whether unaffected work can continue and whether replacement delivery changes the programme.

Separate product problems from installation problems when discussing a remedy. Ask who will investigate and what evidence is needed; do not assume buying materials yourself makes every fitting or return issue the installer’s responsibility.

Materials supplied by: __. Product codes and finishes: __. Quantities checked by: __. Delivery date and contact: __. Storage: __. Missing or damaged items reported to: __. Substitutions approved by: __. Unused materials and returns: __.

Include this information in your job description or attach it to the agreed scope. Client Hive connects customers with independent professionals; materials and work arrangements are agreed directly. Local customer enquiries are being introduced in stages.

Confirm the exact product and quantities with the intended installer before ordering. Discuss delivery timing, missing parts and any effect on the planned appointment.

Ask the supplier and installer what should be retained until items are checked. Keep receipts and product details even after the packaging is no longer needed.