Choosing the right contractor is one of the most important decisions you will make when planning a new office, shop or restaurant. The company you appoint will shape how your space looks, how smoothly the project runs and whether you open on time and on budget. With so many fit out companies in the UK to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. To help, we have put together 10 questions to ask any commercial fit-out contractor before you sign, along with how we answer each one at JSP.
1. Do you have experience in our sector?
Every sector has its own needs. A coffee shop needs a counter layout that keeps service fast, a retailer needs displays that sell and an office needs a space that helps people work well. A contractor with experience in your sector will understand these needs from the start and spot potential problems before they arise.
How JSP answers: We work across retail, food and beverage, office and other commercial sectors, delivering everything from high street shops and coffee shops to drive-thrus and workplace fit-outs. We understand how each type of space needs to work for both staff and customers.
2. Can you provide references and examples of past work?
Any reputable fit out company should be happy to show you examples of completed projects and put you in touch with previous clients. Photos, case studies and honest feedback will give you a far better sense of the quality of work than a sales pitch.
How JSP answers: You can browse our project portfolio to see examples of our recent work, and we are always happy to share references from clients we have worked with.
3. What accreditations do you hold?
Accreditations show that a contractor meets recognised standards for health and safety, quality and professional conduct. They also give you reassurance that the company takes its responsibilities seriously and is regularly checked by an independent body.
How JSP answers: We hold [accreditations to be confirmed], and health and safety is at the heart of everything we do. You can read more about our approach on our health and safety and compliance page.
4. What insurance do you have in place?
Fit-out work carries risks, so it is essential that your contractor has the right insurance. As a minimum, ask about public liability, employer's liability and contractor's all risks cover, and ask to see copies of the certificates.
How JSP answers: We carry [insurance details and levels of cover to be confirmed], and we are happy to provide copies of our certificates before any work begins.
5. Which trades do you carry out in-house, and which are subcontracted?
Most commercial fit out contractors use some subcontractors, but the more work a company carries out itself, the more control it has over quality, cost and timescales. Ask which trades are handled in-house and how subcontractors are chosen and managed.
How JSP answers: One of our biggest strengths is our in-house joinery workshop, where we make counters, shelving, display units and bespoke fittings to your exact specification. This gives us full control over quality and lead times. Where we use specialist subcontractors, we choose trusted partners we have worked with before and manage them closely on site.
6. How will you plan and manage the programme?
A clear programme shows how long the project will take, when each stage will happen and what needs to be in place for work to start. Ask how the contractor builds the programme, how progress is tracked and what happens if something causes a delay.
How JSP answers: We provide a detailed, realistic programme alongside every quote. We plan each stage carefully, coordinate deliveries and trades, and keep you updated on progress so you always know where things stand. If an issue arises, we tell you straight away and agree the best way forward with you.
7. Can you work while our business keeps trading?
If you are refitting an existing site, closing for weeks may not be an option. Some contractors are experienced in working on live sites, carrying out work overnight, outside opening hours or in phases so that you can keep trading.
How JSP answers: We regularly work around trading hours, including overnight and phased working. Before we start, we agree a detailed plan with you covering noise, deliveries, access and safety, so your staff and customers are disrupted as little as possible.
8. Who will be our main point of contact?
Good communication makes a huge difference to how a project feels. Ask who will be your main contact, how often you will receive updates and how quickly questions will be answered. Dealing with one person who knows your project inside out saves time and avoids confusion.
How JSP answers: Every client has a dedicated project manager who acts as a single point of contact from start to finish. They keep you updated at every stage and explain things in plain terms, so you never feel left in the dark.
9. What aftercare do you offer once the project is complete?
The relationship with your contractor should not end on handover day. Ask what happens if something needs adjusting after you open, whether the work comes with any guarantees and whether the contractor offers ongoing maintenance.
How JSP answers: We do not simply hand over the keys and walk away. We offer ongoing support after every project, and our maintenance and repairs service provides planned maintenance and 24/7 reactive cover to keep your premises in excellent condition for years to come.
10. How transparent is your pricing?
A quote should be clear and easy to understand. Be wary of very low prices with little detail, as these can lead to unexpected extra costs later. Ask for an itemised quote, find out what is included and excluded, and check how any changes will be priced.
How JSP answers: We provide detailed, itemised quotes so you can see exactly where your budget is going. We explain what is included, highlight anything you may need to budget for separately and agree how any changes will be handled before work begins, so there are no surprises.
Choosing the right fit-out contractor for you
The right commercial fit out company will be happy to answer all of these questions openly and in detail. Taking the time to ask them now can save you time, money and stress later, and help make sure your new space is everything you hoped for.
At JSP, we have built our reputation on quality workmanship, clear communication and delivering projects on time. You can find out more about who we are in our story.
Request a quote
Planning a fit-out or refurbishment? Get in touch with our team to discuss your project, and we will give you clear advice and an itemised, no-obligation quote.