What should I send a contractor to get an accurate quote?

A contractor can only price what they understand. Most surprises in a quote come from details nobody mentioned, so a few minutes of preparation saves a lot of back and forth.

Photos

Take wide shots that show the whole room or area, then close-ups of anything damaged or unusual: water stains, cracks, soft spots, old wiring or plumbing you can see. Photos taken in daylight are easiest to read.

Rough measurements

You do not need exact numbers. The length and width of a room, the height of a wall, or the size of a deck is enough for a first estimate. For flooring and tile, the square footage of each area is the most useful number.

What you want, in a few sentences

Say what is there now and what you want instead. "Replace the carpet in the basement with vinyl plank and add baseboards" tells a contractor far more than "redo the basement".

When you want it done

A firm date, a season, or "just getting prices" all help. It shows whether the work can be scheduled when you need it.

A ballpark budget

A range is fine. It lets a contractor suggest materials and options that fit, rather than pricing something you would never choose.

Anything that affects access

Mention stairs, tight spaces, parking, pets, and whether the space will be in use during the work. These change how a job is planned.

When you are ready, the quote form asks for each of these and takes up to six photos.