Checklist to find a good business

Ask friends and family for recommendations and check out the Finding a Good Business Guide

Seek references, read reviews, speak to previous customers and if possible, visit previous jobs. Research a company and check their website

Be specific and set out a clear, detailed description of what you want and need. Ask for quotes from at least three businesses. This gives you something to compare

Don't just select the cheapest. Consider how you feel about the business and the way you have been treated so far; do you want them in your house? Can you work with them and communicate with them well? How is their previous quality of work and attention to detail?

Only pay for work that has been completed unless you are using a payment service that protects your money

If the business must pay some upfront costs for materials. It's ok for them to ask you for some money up front to cover some of these costs

Always get a written contract

Agree in writing on any changes that happen along the way. Even if that is you emailing the business, so you have a record of what was said at the time