Not all surface repair companies are the same. The difference between a professional, well-equipped specialist and a cowboy with a tube of filler can be the difference between a repair that lasts years and one that fails within weeks — or worse, makes the damage look worse than it did before. Here’s what to look for when choosing a surface repair company.
1. Look for Specialists, Not Generalists
Surface repair is a specialist trade. The best companies focus exclusively on surface repair — they’re not builders or decorators who do repair on the side. Specialists will have a broader knowledge of materials and repair techniques, better-quality tools and compounds, and more experience handling unusual or challenging repairs.
2. Ask to See Before-and-After Photos
Any reputable surface repair company should be able to show you before-and-after photos of real repairs on the type of surface you need fixed. Pay attention to the finish quality — does the repair blend seamlessly? Is the colour match accurate? Are there any visible joins, patches, or overspray? Photo evidence is the most reliable indicator of quality.
3. Check Reviews from Real Customers
Look for reviews on Google, Trustpilot, or Checkatrade — platforms where reviews are verified rather than hand-picked. Pay attention to comments about the finish quality, punctuality, professionalism, and how the company handled any issues. A few negative reviews aren’t necessarily a red flag — how a company responds to problems tells you more than a perfect five-star rating.
4. Get a Written Quote Before the Work Starts
A professional company will provide a written quote (or at minimum a clear message confirming the price) before any work begins. Be wary of companies that won’t give a firm price until they’re on-site. Most professional repair companies can provide an accurate quote based on good-quality photos of the damage.
5. Check What Guarantee They Offer
A quality repair should last for many years with normal use. Ask the company what guarantee they offer on their work — a confident specialist will stand behind their repairs. Be specific: does the guarantee cover the repair failing, or just labour? Is it in writing? Can they provide details?
6. Are They Insured?
Any tradesperson working in your home should carry public liability insurance. This protects you if something goes wrong — for example, if the repair causes damage to surrounding surfaces, or if the technician has an accident on your property. Don’t be embarrassed to ask for proof of insurance before the work starts.
7. Beware of Unrealistically Low Prices
Surface repair involves specialist equipment, professional-grade compounds, and skilled labour. If a quote seems too cheap, it probably is. Very low-priced repairs often use inferior materials that fail quickly, or are carried out by technicians who lack the training to achieve a quality finish. The cost of having a bad repair redone by a professional is always more than getting it done properly the first time.
Why Choose Shazam Repairs?
At Shazam Repairs, we tick every box on this list. We specialise exclusively in surface repair, provide free written quotes based on photos, share genuine before-and-after examples, and stand behind every repair we carry out. Get your free quote today →
