Where’s the job?

Scope of Works

• survey and mark out patio area and required fall for drainage

• remove turf/soil to required depth, handle and dispose of arisings

• install and compact Type 1 sub‑base in layers, check levels with a laser or level

• lay bedding (sharp sand or mortar) and set slabs to line and level, including cuts

• fit edge restraints and complete jointing with polymeric sand or cement mortar

• final tidy, site sweep and take waste to agreed disposal point

Typical Cost

Time on Site

Typical duration 1–2 days for a small patio (6–12 m²); larger patios 2–5 days. Factors that extend it include poor ground or hidden tree roots, heavy rain, restricted access, additional drainage or sub‑base work, and time for mortar or jointing to cure

Questions to Ask Your Tradie

• can you provide a written quote breaking down materials, labour and disposal

• what ground preparation and sub‑base depth do you recommend for this site

• how will you manage drainage and falls to avoid ponding

• do you include cutting to shape and edge restraints, or is that extra

• will you need a skip or can spoil be taken away in your vehicle (who covers cost)

• what insurance and guarantees do you provide and can you supply references

How to Avoid Surprises

• agree access and parking for vans and any skip permits before work starts

• arrange service locate (gas, water, electric) before excavation

• clear the work area of garden furniture, pots and plants and protect nearby planting

• confirm who supplies slabs and check tolerance/colour batch to avoid mismatches

• allow contingency time for bad weather and unexpected ground conditions

• ask about PPE and dust control if cutting on site and agree safe working area for neighbours