Measure the route, not just the gate
Record the narrowest clear opening along the entire route, including corners, steps, doors and temporary obstructions. Photograph the route from the likely delivery point to the proposed patio. State whether the route crosses a shared area or the house.
These measurements are a project brief. They do not establish that a particular machine, pallet or worker can safely pass. Ask the installer to confirm the route and method during their assessment.
Separate delivery from movement on site
A supplier’s delivery point may be the kerb or an accessible driveway. Ask who unloads, stores and transports material from that point. Check whether the quote assumes a truck, crane, small machine or manual movement, and what changes if that assumption fails.
Do not assume all material can be left on a public footpath or roadway. Confirm any relevant permissions and practical arrangements with the supplier, installer and responsible local authority before planning delivery there.
Include waste and protection in the same discussion
Material goes in and the existing surface and excavated material go out. Ask how both journeys will work, how the route will be protected and whether reinstatement is included. Show the provider any surface you are particularly concerned about.
Discuss storage, working hours and keeping essential access usable. These are job-specific arrangements, not evidence that a company offers a particular access solution or that a narrow route always causes a fixed surcharge.
Send a brief that can be answered
Send the approximate patio area, a route sketch, opening measurements, photographs, parking context and desired material. Ask what further site information is needed and whether access costs are included or provisional.
Use the material calculator to estimate volume at a depth supplied by your installer or product instructions. It does not specify the depth or replace a site assessment. Compare the result and access assumptions with providers declaring Belfast patio work.
Put your plan into practice
Explore professionals serving Belfast, look through their work and send your questions.
Find a professional