Engineered Surface SystemsBefore you appoint a driveway contractor.
Use this 10-point checklist to compare every quote on the same basis. If a contractor can answer yes to every question, you are comparing like for like. If they cannot, the difference is not just price.
The 10 questions to ask
Free PDFAre they insured?
Public liability and employers' liability cover should be confirmed before works start.
Are they an approved installer?
Manufacturer approvals, such as Tobermore for block paving, mean the system is installed to the warranty standard.
Will they specify sub-base depth?
A fixed thickness in writing proves the driveway is engineered for your ground and loading, not just a guess.
Are utilities scanned?
A CAT4 sweep against statutory plans protects gas, water, electric and fibre runs before the digger reaches them.
Is drainage designed?
Water ruins driveways. The proposal should state how surface water is collected, directed or allowed to infiltrate.
Is waste legally removed?
An upper-tier waste carrier licence and waste transfer notes prove spoil is disposed of through licensed facilities.
Is there a written specification?
Every layer, material, drainage detail and programme should be documented, not just a verbal price.
Is workmanship guaranteed?
A formal guarantee gives you recourse if the sub-base, drainage or surface fails within the covered period.
Who owns the machinery?
Owned plant and dedicated crews keep quality and scheduling under one company's control.
Will the person quoting actually supervise?
The person who measures, designs and prices the job should be accountable on site, not passed to an unknown gang.
If another contractor can answer yes to every question, you will be comparing like for like. If they cannot, the difference is not just price; it is the quality of what you are actually buying.
Common questions homeowners ask
Why is a written specification so important?
A written specification locks in every layer, drainage detail and material. Without it, two quotes are rarely comparing the same thing and corners can be cut after you sign.
What insurance should a driveway contractor have?
At minimum, public liability insurance of £5,000,000 and employers' liability of £10,000,000. Ask for a certificate before work starts.
What does an approved installer mean?
An approved installer has been trained, audited and authorised by a manufacturer such as Tobermore. The install is then backed by a product warranty.
How should a contractor deal with drainage?
They should assess your falls, soil type and run-off volume, then specify permeable surfaces, linear channels, soakaways or a controlled outfall. SUDS compliance is key.
Why does it matter who owns the machinery?
Ready to compare us against your other quotes?
Book a free site assessment and we will answer every question on this checklist in writing. You will receive a written proposal with sub-base depth, drainage design, materials, programme and guarantees clearly stated. No pressure, no obligation.