A quote for the steel and a quote for a finished garage can look similar at a glance. Check the concrete, doors, installation and utility work before comparing the totals.
Start with the ground and concrete
Say whether the site is untouched, already graded or has an existing slab. Send photographs and any drawings you have. An existing slab still needs to be checked for the proposed building.
Ask whether the price includes clearing, fill, grading, drainage work, foundations and the apron outside the doors. Confirm who coordinates the slab dimensions and anchor details with the steel supplier. If work is excluded, find out who is expected to arrange it.
Check what comes with the shell
Look for the frame, roof and wall panels, trim and doors on the package list. Then check delivery, unloading, installation and removal of packing or construction debris. Supplied and installed are different items; do not assume one includes the other.
List the insulation and interior finish you want. A building that is closed in may still need wiring, lights, outlets or other work before you can use it as intended. Include a vehicle charger or major workshop equipment in the request if you want that work priced.
Mark the items still to be decided
Use the same checklist for every proposal:
- Drawings, approvals and inspections.
- Site preparation, concrete and anchor coordination.
- Doors and operating hardware, supplied and installed.
- Insulation, utilities and interior work.
- Allowances, exclusions and optional extras.
Ask for written clarification where a line is missing or unclear. Keep that answer with the quote so you can compare the work being offered, not just the total at the bottom.
Garage options · Request a quote