Things to Check on Completion of a Major Works/Contract

Conduct a final walk-through inspection with the tradesperson to make sure all work meets your expectations and matches what was agreed.

Review the final invoice carefully. Check that it matches the agreed quote and any approved changes or additions to the original quotation.

Look over the completed work for any signs of poor workmanship, damage, or unfinished tasks.

Create a snagging list of anything that still needs attention. Agree a clear timeline with the contractor for when these items will be completed.

Check the quality of the materials and workmanship against what was originally agreed. If something looks different from what you discussed, ask why.

Areas where work has taken place should be left clean and tidy. All debris should be removed at the end of the job. This makes it easier to spot any marks, scratches, or damage.

Test everything that has been installed or repaired to make sure it works correctly – for example: doors, cupboards, windows, switches, taps, or any other moving or functional items.

Ask for all relevant paperwork, including:

• Contracts and receipts
• Warranties
• Permits
• Completion certificates (if applicable)

Make sure you understand the terms of any warranties on both labour and materials, including how long they last and how to make a claim.

Get manuals or instruction booklets for any new items installed so you know how to look after them and keep any warranties valid.

Where subcontractors have been used, confirm they have been paid. If they haven’t, there could be issues later, so it’s worth checking.

Keep the tradesperson’s contact details somewhere safe in case you need them for future issues, questions, or follow-up work.

Check that any work carried out complies with local building regulations and safety standards.

Confirm that all debris and waste have been removed safely and disposed of legally and in an environmentally responsible way.

Where relevant, check that structural elements (such as beams or supports) are secure and meet safety standards

Ask if the tradesperson offers ongoing maintenance, servicing, or follow-up visits and what these might cost.

Provide honest feedback or a review based on your experience. It’s especially important to support and review any JustGoLocal “Local Business Member” you have chosen to work with.

If the work has caused noise or disruption, speak to your neighbours, thank them for their patience, and check they haven’t been left with any issues.

Ask for an emergency contact number in case any urgent issues arise shortly after the work has been completed.

Scan or photograph important documents (quotes, invoices, warranties, certificates) and store them securely as digital copies.

Ask whether the business offers any referral rewards or discounts if you recommend them to friends, family, or neighbours.

Only make the final payment once you are fully satisfied with the work and any snagging items have been completed.