Inspect Before You Price
Record the room dimensions, ceiling height, substrate, existing finish and access. Photographs help, but they may not show hollow plaster, contamination, movement or poor backgrounds.
Plastering Quote Checklist
- Walls, ceilings or both
- Approximate square metres
- Skim, patch, board or full re-plaster
- Removal of loose material
- PVA, grit primer or bonding preparation
- Plasterboard and fixing method
- Corner beads, mesh and reinforcement
- Chases, sockets and service penetrations
- Ceiling height and stairwells
- Furniture and floor protection
- Water and electricity availability
- Materials, delivery and storage
- Waste removal and final cleaning
- Drying guidance
- Exclusions and variations
Sample Breakdown
| Item | Included |
|---|---|
| Protection | Cover accessible floors and fixed surfaces |
| Preparation | Remove loose material and apply specified bonding agent |
| Finish | Two-coat skim to listed walls |
| Materials | Plaster, beads and standard sundries |
| Excluded | Hidden damp, structural movement and electrical work |
Hidden Costs That Cause Underquoting
High ceilings, narrow staircases, occupied rooms, many reveals, failing backgrounds, deep chases and waiting for other trades all reduce output. Price the actual conditions rather than using a room rate without inspection.
Do not promise a paint date: drying depends on thickness, ventilation, temperature and humidity. Give guidance, not a guarantee outside your control.
Use Clear Assumptions
Where the substrate cannot be fully assessed, state the assumed condition and explain how extra preparation will be approved. This is clearer than hiding a large contingency or absorbing every surprise.
Payment and Scheduling
For larger jobs, use a deposit or staged payments linked to clear milestones. State access requirements, working hours and what happens if the room is not ready on the agreed date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should be included in a plastering quote?
List the surfaces, preparation, system, materials, access, protection, waste, timing, exclusions, payment terms and variation process.
Should a plasterer quote per room or square metre?
Both can be useful, but the final price should reflect condition, height, access, corners, reveals and preparation rather than area alone.
Is painting included in a plastering quote?
Normally only if it is explicitly listed. State that decorating is excluded and give suitable drying guidance.
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