Note: This article is general planning information only. It is not legal, building, tax or financial advice. Always check your property, council/certifier pathway and numbers before spending heavily on designs, deposits or approvals.

If you only ask “How much?”, the answer can be too vague to be useful. A better quote request gives the supplier enough detail to understand the site, use and likely scope.

Useful details to include

• Suburb, postcode and state
• Intended use: family, rental, office, studio, guest space or other
• Preferred bedrooms, bathrooms and rough size
• Site photos showing access, slope and proposed location
• Any known easements, trees, drainage or service issues
• Whether power, water, sewer/septic and stormwater are nearby
• Whether you need help with approvals
• Rough budget range and timing

Ask for inclusions and exclusions

When comparing quotes, ask what is included and what is excluded. This helps you avoid comparing a basic supply quote with a more complete project quote.