How to choose a renovation contractor in Dubai

Ask for evidence of similar work

Request examples that match your property type and the work you need. A new concrete frame and an occupied-home renovation involve different delivery problems. Ask what the contractor actually performed on each project: main contractor, specialist subcontractor or a limited support package.

Use completed photographs to discuss details such as floor junctions, doors, corners and lighting positions. If references are available, ask the contractor to arrange contact with the client’s permission. A photograph demonstrates visible work, not every concealed installation or contractual obligation.

Find out who owns each decision

Identify the person responsible for day-to-day coordination and the person authorised to agree changes. Ask how subcontracted trades, client-supplied items and building management will be coordinated. Request a description of the proposed team for your job rather than assuming a company’s whole workforce is allocated to it.

Agree who provides drawings, engineering input when needed, applications, materials, access equipment, protection and waste removal. Ask the contractor to confirm that its current trade licence and relevant insurance cover the proposed work.

Take these ten questions to your first meeting

Send the same brief to each shortlisted company. Record the answers in writing so the comparison does not rely on memory.

• Which comparable projects did you complete, and what was your role?
• Who will supervise this job and be my main contact?
• What site information is still needed before a firm quotation?
• Which drawings, permissions and specialist inputs are required?
• What labour, materials and preparation are included?
• Which exclusions and provisional allowances remain?
• How will materials and finish samples be approved?
• How will changes be priced and accepted before execution?
• What dependencies determine the start and handover dates?
• What snagging, product documents and agreed warranty terms will be handed over?

Compare like-for-like proposals

One contractor may allow for removing the existing floor and preparing the base, while another prices only laying new tiles. Put those scope differences beside the totals before deciding which proposal offers better value.

Written payment milestones, change approval and handover responsibilities should reflect the actual agreement. If a proposal leaves a significant item unclear, resolve it before appointment. For legal interpretation of a contract, use an appropriately qualified adviser.