The checklist
- Area in square metres and a sketch or plan
- Depth of excavation and what happens to the spoil (skip or grab lorry)
- Sub-base material (MOT Type 1, or open-graded stone for permeable) and its compacted thickness
- Laying course: sharp sand (not building sand), screeded to an even depth
- Block make or type, thickness, colour and laying pattern
- Edge restraints: kerbs or soldier course, bedded and haunched in concrete
- Falls and where rain goes: lawn, border, channel drain, soakaway or permeable build
- Level relative to the damp-proof course (at least 150 mm below)
- Manhole and inspection covers: re-used, raised, lowered or recessed
- Jointing: kiln-dried sand (or grit for permeable paving)
- Dropped kerb: who applies and who builds it
- Start date, expected duration and what can delay it
- Payment stages, and your 14-day cancellation right
Why the specification matters more than the price
Almost every block paving failure starts below the blocks: a shallow, uncompacted sub-base, a thick sand bed, edging laid loose, or water with nowhere to go. A quote that states those details is one you can hold the installer to.
Your cancellation rights
If you agree a contract at home or at a distance (online, phone or email), the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013 normally give you 14 days to cancel. Work can only start within that period if you expressly ask for it, in writing for contracts made at home, and if you then cancel you pay a proportionate amount for work done.
Red flags
- Cash-only prices or pressure to sign today
- No address or company details
- A price for a "special offer" because they are "in the area"
- "No need for a sub-base" on a drive that cars will use
- Edging "on sand"
- No mention of drainage on a front drive
More questions
Should a block paving quote be fixed?
Yes, once the specification is agreed. The only usual exception is a clearly described unknown, such as an old foundation found during the dig, with the rate for dealing with it stated in advance.
Do I have to pay a deposit?
Payment stages vary between firms. Ours are set out on your written quote; never pay a large sum in cash before work starts.
Reviewed 9 November 2026. Sources include the BS 7533 series, Interpave and manufacturer laying guidance, GOV.UK, gov.wales, gov.scot and nidirect planning guidance, and the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013.
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