Lead & Trade guide
Questions to ask a driveway installer
What to ask about excavation, sub-base, drainage, edging, materials and guarantees.
Edited by Lead & Trade using general UK hiring, quoting and platform privacy guidance. This is practical guidance, not legal advice or a guarantee of workmanship.
Check the ground preparation
Ask how deep the installer will excavate, what sub-base will be used and how soft ground or old surfaces will be handled.
For block paving and resin, base preparation and drainage are usually more important than the surface finish alone.
Confirm drainage and finish
Ask whether the surface is permeable, whether drainage channels or soakaways are needed, and how manhole covers or edging will be finished.
Get the guarantee, payment stages and expected curing or settling time in writing.
Practical checklist
- Write down the job scope, access notes, timing and budget range before asking for quotes.
- Keep your messages, photos, quote changes and payment notes in one place.
- Ask for written details where the work involves safety, certification, specialist materials or staged payments.
- Use Lead & Trade privacy-safe job posting so your full contact details are not public.