Tenders by trade · Written by Wallis Tenders · Reviewed 1 October 2026
Understand the service boundary
Plumbing notices can range from small repairs to bathroom refurbishment, water systems and wider mechanical services. Start with plumbing, then try the system or service you specialise in. Heating, gas, drainage and water-hygiene tasks may carry different requirements; check the actual specification.
Compare the response commitment
Responsive maintenance may need an emergency rota, resident appointments, parts availability and completion within specified times. A project contract may instead have a fixed programme and detailed quantities. Check which arrangement you can deliver alongside existing customers.
Check what the price must cover
Read the schedule for call-out charges, parts, labour, making good and follow-up visits. Ask how incomplete property information or inaccessible appointments are treated. Confirm any required qualifications and records for the particular systems in scope before committing bid time.
Your quick checklist
- What systems and property types are covered?
- Is emergency or weekend cover required?
- Are parts and making good included in the rate?
- How are appointments, job reports and invoices handled?