Hiring someone to fit your doors might seem straightforward. Pick someone local, agree on a price, job done. But getting it wrong can be costly. A poorly fitted door doesn’t just look untidy — it causes draughts, creates security risks, and can lead to long-term structural problems. Whether you’re replacing a single internal door or upgrading your entire home, asking the right questions before you commit makes all the difference.
Are they fully insured?
Any reputable door fitter should carry public liability insurance as a minimum. If something goes wrong — damage to your property, an on-site injury — you need to know you’re covered. Ask for proof rather than verbal confirmation. Any professional will have no hesitation showing you their documentation.
Can they share references or recent work?
Confident, experienced door fitters will point you towards previous clients or share photos of completed jobs. If someone becomes evasive when you ask this, treat it as a warning sign. Online reviews are helpful, but personal references carry more weight, especially for work in and around the home.
What’s included in the quote?
Quotes can vary wildly, and not always for the reasons you’d expect. Ask what’s included. Does the price cover removing the old doors? What about new hinges, handles, or frames if needed? Are there additional costs for awkwardly sized properties or older buildings? Clarity upfront avoids uncomfortable surprises when the invoice arrives.
How long will the job take?
A single internal door might take a couple of hours to install. A full set of doors across a property could span a day or more. Ask about their schedule and how they work around you. Knowing when they’ll arrive and how they plan the job helps you plan your day and sets clear expectations on both sides.
Do they have experience with the type of doors you need fitting?
Bi-fold doors, fire doors, composite front doors, and solid hardwood interiors all require different skills and knowledge. Make sure your door fitter has relevant hands-on experience with the specific type of door you’re having fitted. It’s a reasonable question, and any good tradesperson will appreciate that you’ve asked it.
What happens if something goes wrong after fitting?
A quality door fitter stands behind their work. Ask directly about aftercare. Do they offer a guarantee on their fitting? Will they return to make adjustments if a door drops or doesn’t close properly? Knowing there’s a safety net gives you peace of mind long after the job is done.
TJC Carpentry are door fitters based in Letchworth covering the surrounding area. We’re happy to answer all of these questions before you decide. Get in touch to discuss your project.