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The tire-kicker filter playbook

A better first conversation. A better next step.

Qualify a contractor inquiry by checking scope, location, timing, and budget context before booking a visit. Start with a few relevant questions; use this 27-question library when you need more detail.

By Purab Arora, founder of LightWork · September 11, 2026

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A first-reply script you can adapt

Thanks for reaching out. Before we arrange a visit, could you share what you want done, your location, and your ideal timing? Photos and approximate measurements help if they are easy and safe to gather. If you have a budget range, please include it; if not, we can explain the main cost drivers. Any range we share is preliminary until scope and site conditions are confirmed.

Scope and fit

  1. What would you like repaired, replaced, or changed?
  2. What is happening now, and what would a good result look like?
  3. Where is the property, and is it inside our service area?
  4. What type of property is it?
  5. Can you share approximate dimensions or quantities?
  6. Can you share photos taken safely from an accessible location?
  7. Is this the whole project, or one phase of a larger job?

Timing and access

  1. When would you ideally like the work completed?
  2. Is there a specific deadline or event driving that date?
  3. Are you researching options, planning, or ready to choose a contractor?
  4. When can someone provide access for a visit if one is needed?
  5. Are there parking, entry, delivery, or working-hour restrictions?
  6. Will the property be occupied while work is happening?

Budget and expectations

  1. Have you set a budget range, or would an explanation of cost drivers help?
  2. Which parts of the scope matter most if we need to phase the work?
  3. Are you looking for a repair, standard replacement, or upgraded finish?
  4. Which materials or fixtures have already been selected?
  5. Will you supply any materials, and if so, which ones?
  6. Would you like us to explain what is included and excluded in a preliminary range?
  7. Would a range with clear assumptions help you decide whether to arrange a visit?

Decision and next step

  1. Who else needs to be involved in choosing the scope or approving the work?
  2. Are you the owner, or can the owner authorize the work?
  3. Are there building-management or association requirements to account for?
  4. What questions would you want answered before choosing a contractor?
  5. What is the best way to contact you about this inquiry?
  6. Would you prefer a clarification call, a planning range, or a site visit next?
  7. When should we follow up if you need time to decide?

Choose the next step fairly

  • Ready for review: the project fits your services and area, with enough detail to plan a call or visit.
  • Needs clarification: scope, timing, access, or expectations are unclear. Ask the missing question.
  • Planning for later: share helpful scope information and agree on a follow-up date.
  • Outside your services: explain the mismatch politely. Do not infer fit from personal identity or neighborhood demographics.

An unknown budget does not make someone a bad lead. Explain cost drivers and options before deciding that the project cannot fit.

Use the right questions for the trade

  • Roofing: repair or replacement, visible leak history, roof material, and photos from ground level. Do not ask homeowners to climb a roof.
  • Remodeling: room size, layout changes, finish choices, and whether the home will be occupied.
  • HVAC: repair or replacement, current equipment, comfort concerns, and access. Diagnosis needs a qualified technician.
  • Plumbing: the fixture or area affected, when the issue began, and access. A scope description is not a remote diagnosis.
  • Electrical: the requested upgrade, equipment involved, and available documentation. Do not ask homeowners to open panels or touch wiring.

Give a ballpark without promising a quote

Use your own recent comparable jobs and current supplier costs. State the scope, a lower and upper planning range, and the assumptions that could change it. Explain exclusions and the site checks still needed. If the inputs are too uncertain, offer a clarification call instead of a number.

Example wording: “Based on the scope you described, this is a preliminary planning range. Access, measurements, materials, and conditions still need review before we can provide a written quote.”

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