Clearance Paving

• First you need a project plan. Sketch a rough drawing of what you want to do
• Collect samples of pictures that show how you might want it to look.
• Make a note of any products in particular you would like to use.
• Try and set yourself a budget. Keep a contingency, there is almost always something you don't allow for.
• Then start to contact a number of contractors, getting at least 3 like for like quotes. A good contractor will come to site and measure up themselves, providing you with a written quotation that details the work discussed.

Where to find a good contractor

Word of Mouth

The best way to find a driveway or paving contractor to rely on is by word of mouth. If you know any friends, family or work colleagues that have had a project done near where you live, give them a call to find out who they have used and what they thought.

Independent Associations

There are a number of associations that run approval schemes for paving contractors. They regular visit and assess contractor projects throughout the installation process and talk to customers to ensure they are receiving good service.

Try BALI (www.bali.org.uk) and Interlay (www.interlay.org.uk), who are seen as two of the leading schemes in the industry.

Manufacturer schemes

There are also a number of manufacturers that operate lists of approved paving and driveway contractors. In the same way as the independent associations, they assess workmanship and usually provide training to the members so they are very experienced in installing the manufacturer’s products.

One example is Brett, who operate the Brett Approved Installer Scheme. Visit www.brett.co.uk/findaninstaller.

Other Sources

If all else fails, try directories such as Yellow pages, local newspapers and the internet. If you do, ensure you follow our guidelines, and don’t choose someone just because they are available; it is usually worth waiting to make sure it is done properly.