Plaster Repairs and Assessment Guide

Scope of Works

• Survey & diagnose: tap‑test walls, use moisture meter, mark hollow/blown areas and hairline cracking.

• Prepare site: protect floors, isolate electrics, strip wallpaper, score edges.

• Cut out & remove failed plaster back to firm substrate; bag rubble for disposal.

• Treat substrate: apply bonding agent, rake out masonry joints, secure loose laths if present.

• Patch & build up: back‑fill in layers, mesh‑reinforce cracks, trowel skim finish, feather edges.

• Light sand & mist‑coat once dry; present surface ready for decoration.

• Report any structural movement, damp ingress or asbestos‑suspect ceilings.
  

Typical Cost (inc. VAT)

Time on Site

3 – 6 hours hands‑on for a single wall or moderate ceiling patch. Extra time if:

• multiple rooms or ceilings,

• drying needs acceleration (cold weather),

• hidden damp or lath repairs discovered,

• scaffold tower set‑up for stairwells.
  

Questions to Ask Your Trade

1. Will you mesh‑reinforce cracks or just skim?

2. Is drying time included in your schedule, and who ventilates the room after you leave?

3. Are materials (plaster, PVA, primer) itemised separately on the quote?

4. How will you contain dust and protect adjoining rooms?

5. Do you carry public liability insurance covering overspray or accidental damage?

6. What guarantee do you give against re‑cracking or debonding?

7. If additional damp or structural issues are found, how will costs be agreed?
   

How to Avoid Surprises

• Clear wall space and move furniture at least 1 m away.

• Reserve nearby parking for mixing gear and waste removal.

• Check if a loft hatch or stairwell needs a small scaffold tower.

• Confirm power and water access for mixing and clean‑up.

• Photograph the area before work starts and insist on a written variation order for any extras.