What to check on a window survey and measuring visit

A window survey collects everything needed to order frames that fit the first time: accurate measurements of each opening, the condition of the old frames, sills and lintels, the opening style and glazing the client wants, and the access on the day. Measure each window several times, note the wall type and the reveals, photograph every opening, and discuss safety glass, ventilation and escape windows where they apply. Then confirm the order in writing, give a lead time, and book the fitting days once the frames are due.

Measure width and height at several points, as old openings are rarely square, and take the smallest figures for the frame size with the right fitting allowance. Note whether the old frame is fitted in a rebate or flush, the depth of the reveal and the wall construction. A numbered sketch of the house with each window labelled avoids mix-ups at the factory and on fitting day.

Replacement windows can be subject to building rules on thermal performance, ventilation and safety, and in protected areas or listed buildings, to planning permission. Ask the client about the status of the property and say what you handle and what they must check.

If the job includes a front door or patio doors, measure the threshold height against the floors inside and out, check the step and drainage, and ask how the doors will be used: pushchairs, wheelchairs, pets. A low threshold and the right opening direction matter as much as the size.

Say in the quote who removes the old frames and glass, and how they will be disposed of. Glass and old frames can be recycled in some areas; include the cost if you take them away.

Note parking for the van, the route to each window, upstairs openings that need a tower or scaffold, and furniture or fitted blinds in the way. Ask whether someone will be home on the day and whether pets need to be kept away from open walls. Tell the client roughly how many windows you can fit per day so they can plan.

Send a written order summary with each window's size, style and glazing, and ask the client to sign it before you order. Give the lead time from the manufacturer and explain that the fitting date is fixed once the delivery date is confirmed. Measuring errors are expensive, so a second check before ordering, especially on unusual openings, is worth the time.

On Book, each service has a name, a price and an optional description shown on your public page. Create a "Window survey" service and open slots on days you're in each area. Clients book with their name, email and phone and can write the number of windows and the address in the optional note, which you read in your new-booking email. Once the frames are ordered and the delivery date is known, book the fitting days yourself from your calendar, with the address in the booking note; the client gets a confirmation with a calendar file if you add their email.

Durations and prices are examples: set your own. If the frames arrive late and you must move the fitting, reschedule it from your bookings list and tell the client yourself, since Book doesn't email clients about changes. Book costs €5/month, everything included: unlimited services and bookings, no commission, no contract.