Yorkshire Paveworks

Do you give a written estimate and quotation?

• Yes we always give a written estimate firstly, then when we know exactly what you want we give a written quote.
• We would advise, never accept a verbal assurance that it will cost ‘about £3.000'.
• It’s important to distinguish between an estimate and a quotation. You can move from an estimate to a quotation when you have established exactly what is to be done. You may want to change a few things to save money after seeing the estimate.

An estimate is only an approximation, it has no binding force.

A quotation is an undertaking to do the job for a stated price.

• The final detailed quotation will include all the work to be done, date of completion, security and safety, catering and toilet arrangements, disposal of rubbish, water and power supplies, hours of working.
• And for your own piece of mind we require written confirmation before work commences.

How many jobs do you have on at the moment?

• We never take on more jobs than we can handle at any one time as a rule this is no more than 3-4 jobs at any one time. Because of this there is sometimes a waiting period of about 2-5 weeks before a job can start you will be given a start date in the quote.

Do you have insurance cover?

• Yes we have both public and employers’ liability insurance if you want to see our policy we are more than pleased to show you this.
• Your builder is legally obliged to have both public and employers liability insurance – ask to see his certificates.  He should have at least £2 million cover.  He should also have other insurance to cover other kinds of problem which may arise – again, ask to see his certificate

How do you want me to pay?

• Normally on jobs we take a small deposit then payments when each phaze is completed and the customer is completely happy with the job the final balance will be required 14 days after the customer has signed that they are happy with the job.
• We accept cash, bank transfer and cheque please try to pay by bank transfer or cheque as we don’t like you using cash as the customer is in a very weak position in the event of a dispute

How do you deal with changes to the specification?

• Any changes should be put in writing and, if there is a knock-on effect on the costs and finish date, these should be put in writing too as an addition to the quotation or contract.  Please do not venture onto a project thinking you can easily change your mind as you go along – most changes of mind will cost you money and cause delay.

Do I Need Planning Permission?

• Find out if you need planning permission or if building regulations apply to your job.  If it qualifies as ‘building works’, which includes everything from building an extension down to installing a new window or boiler, you are obliged to have it inspected and certified by your local council (which will require a fee).  Planning permission covers larger projects and for this you need to apply to your local council planning department, providing plans.  The department responsible at your local council is called Building Control and they will tell you all you need to know.  You will need the certificates when you come to sell your house as the buyer’s solicitor will want to see them.

Can I visit the site?

• We have no problem with you visiting the site whenever you like along as you see the site supervisor when you get there to be escorted around site and be given the correct safety clothing to wear, as your safety would be our main concern.

What about DIY?

• DIY is always an option but always make sure you are ready and able to tackle your project and always make certain you have enough finances for not only the whole project but also any unforeseen issues that always are inevitable.
• Also remember we have insurance to cover injury or damage to any third party, your home insurance may not cover some large scale projects, so check with them first.
• Be aware that the DIY option could cost more in the long run especially if eventually you need to call in a professional.
• Due to the wide variation in prices across Yorkshire, you should always consult local suppliers. The prices stated below are to construct a typical driveway to a professional standard and include, sub-base material, bedding sand, blocks/bricks and any skips needed to remove excavated material and the hire of a whacker plate, block splitter for one weekend. Prices do not include labour for you to take on the project and do it yourself.