Site visit checklist: what we check before quoting

Gabriel Mikael
6 days ago
3 min read

A proper site visit before quoting checks legal readiness, site conditions, access/logistics, utilities, drainage/topography, and risk items (siteworks/soil) so the quote includes real-world costs—not assumptions. Pre-construction assessments commonly cover legal compliance, geotechnical conditions, environmental factors, and hazards because they prevent “surprise” costs later.

Why a site visit matters (the real reason budgets blow up)

Most budget blowouts happen because quotes are based on “ideal lot assumptions.” The site visit turns assumptions into facts—especially for:

excavation/hauling needs
drainage and slope issues
access road limitations (materials delivery, equipment)
utility connection realities
permit and documentation readiness (so your timeline doesn’t stall)

What we check before quoting (copy-paste checklist)

1) Lot identity + boundaries (avoid disputes and redesign)

Verify lot frontage, corners, and visible boundary markers
Check potential encroachments, fencing issues, or unclear edges
Confirm buildable area and setbacks (where your house can legally sit)

2) Access and logistics (your schedule depends on this)

Road width, turning radius, delivery path, unloading area
Space for staging materials, mixing area, storage, worker access
Safety and security needs (fencing, public protection)

3) Existing conditions on the lot

Trees, rocks, old slabs, existing structures for demolition/removal
Neighboring structures close to the boundary (affects excavation and safety)

4) Topography and drainage (silent cost driver)

Slope direction and low points (where water collects)
Natural drainage routes, nearby canals/ditches, flooding indicators
Drainage plan needs (catch basins, lines, elevation adjustments)

5) Soil and ground behavior (foundation cost lives here)

We don’t “guess” soil. We observe surface signs and recommend the right level of investigation when needed. Soil investigation is used to understand soil/rock properties (bearing capacity, groundwater, hazards) so foundations are safe and cost-optimized.

Signs of soft ground, fill soil, settlement cracks nearby
Evidence of high groundwater or poor percolation
Whether a soil test or additional foundation design inputs are needed

6) Utilities (what’s available vs what’s assumed)

Location and distance to power lines, water supply, drainage/septic requirements
Temporary utilities during construction
Where service entries can realistically go (affects layout and cost)

7) Build constraints from the neighborhood

HOA/subdivision rules (if applicable): working hours, deliveries, design limits
Noise/dust control needs, neighbor protection plans

8) Permit readiness and documentation gaps

We flag what’s needed early so your quote + timeline is realistic. The National Building Code framework requires permitting and a Certificate of Occupancy for use/occupancy.

What documents you already have vs what must be secured
Likely approval steps and inspection requirements (to avoid schedule surprises)

9) Siteworks scope (where “small extras” become big money)

Excavation difficulty, hauling routes, disposal constraints
Backfill/compaction needs
Space for septic tank/drain field (if applicable)This is one of the biggest “quote vs reality” gaps—so we treat it as a first-class cost item, not an afterthought.

10) Design fit check (so you don’t pay for redraws)

Confirm your target floor area works with the lot
Identify layout risks early (room widths, parking, setbacks, natural light, ventilation)

11) Wall system + method fit (WallPro-specific practical checks)

Delivery and handling plan (where panels/materials stage safely)
Opening locations (doors/windows) coordination so rework is minimized
Wet areas strategy (bathrooms, waterproofing zones) to prevent future defects

12) Risk notes (we document these in writing)

“Quote assumes…” items (flat lot, accessible road, normal soil, etc.)
What would change the price and how we’ll measure it (transparent rules)

What you should prepare before the site visit (to speed up your quote)

Lot location pin + subdivision/block/lot info
Lot plan or survey if available
Your target: floor area (sqm), bedrooms, budget band
Any pegs/markers info (if boundaries were previously set)

What you should receive after a proper site visit (this is the standard)

A quote is only trustworthy if it comes with:

Scope of work + inclusions
Exclusions list
BOQ / specs (or at least a clear cost breakdown)
Milestone schedule aligned to progress. This is the difference between a “price” and a plan.