Confirm the exact wall dimensions, wall type (plasterboard, brick, stud), and whether the wall is load-bearing or has anything mounted behind it that could interfere with fixing brackets. Note any obstructions in the intended area such as sockets, light switches or radiators. A quick photo of the full wall, taken straight-on, is usually enough for a supplier to spot issues a written description would miss. If the board is being installed as part of a wider refurbishment, it’s also worth checking the finish schedule to confirm the wall will be fully dry and finished before the installation date, since fixing brackets into a wall that hasn’t cured properly can compromise how securely the board is held.

Decide whether ceramic steel is a requirement (recommended for daily use) and whether a frameless or framed finish suits the space. If the board will span multiple panels, confirm panel joins will be finished to a matching standard. Note any colour or branding preferences at this stage too, since these can affect lead time if a non-standard finish needs to be manufactured to order. Requesting a physical sample of the intended surface finish, particularly for any non-standard colour, is a small extra step that avoids disappointment once the full-size board arrives looking different to what was expected from a screen or printed swatch.

Decide between direct-to-wall fixing and a rail system, particularly if the board might need to be removed, relevelled or reconfigured within its lifetime. Confirm who is responsible for installation, since some suppliers include this and others quote supply-only. If there’s any chance the space will be reconfigured within the next few years, whether through desk moves, a new layout or a change in team size, that’s a strong signal to lean towards a rail-mounted system even if the extra cost isn’t strictly needed today.

Establish a realistic lead time, including manufacturing and installation, and confirm whether the quote is inclusive of delivery and fitting or supply-only. Get this in writing before comparing quotes from different suppliers, since inclusions vary enough to make headline prices misleading on their own. Ask specifically what happens if a delivery date is missed, since this is rarely covered in an initial quote but matters if the board is tied to a fixed office move-in date or a client visit.

Confirm internally who needs to approve the final specification before a quote is accepted, particularly on shared or client-facing walls where more than one stakeholder may have a view on finish or placement. Getting this sign-off before the order is placed avoids a costly change request once manufacturing has already started.

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