Ask for a BOQ that defines the work
The document should separate trades, quantities, units, materials and labour, and state both inclusions and exclusions. Broad descriptions such as “complete electrical work” can hide important differences and later extras.
Review genuinely comparable projects
Homes, villas, shops and renovations have different risks. Ask for projects similar in scale and building systems, including construction-stage photographs. Finished styling alone does not show the quality of concealed work.
Know who will supervise the site
Confirm who is responsible, how often they inspect, how progress is reported and how variations are approved. Without a clear site lead, the owner may end up coordinating several trades personally.
Link payments to measurable progress
Set payment stages against inspected work. Record start and completion dates, change procedures, warranty and handover documents. Avoid high advance payments without evidence of materials or progress.
Prepare the location, dimensions, current photographs, any existing drawings, required scope and an approximate budget. Giving every team the same information makes early estimates easier to compare.