Start with the current official registers
Contractor status and the measures covered by a registration can change. Search SEAI's registered professional directory on the day you shortlist a provider. SEAI's support guidance warns that registration for one measure does not automatically cover another.
For external wall insulation, also check the proposed system and installer route against NSAI Agrément information. NSAI says an approved external-insulation system should be installed by an approved installer.
Build a shortlist without rankings
- Filter the official register for the required measure and location.
- Ask each provider to confirm the exact legal or trading name and registration used for the job.
- Request recent, relevant project references that you can contact.
- Ask who will survey, design, supervise and sign the required declarations.
- Keep the shortlist open until the property survey identifies the appropriate measure.
What to ask any Cork insulation contractor
- What did the survey establish? Ask for the wall construction, defects, exposure and existing insulation to be recorded.
- What exact scope is included? Insulation area, preparation, ventilation, services, junctions, finishes and making-good should be explicit.
- What product or system is proposed? Ask for certification and the installation specification, not only a brand name.
- Who carries each responsibility? Clarify grant application, assessor, declarations, inspection and final documents.
- What warranty is offered? Obtain the provider, duration, exclusions, maintenance conditions and claim process in writing.
- What is excluded? Scaffolding, repairs, electrical or plumbing alterations, planning matters and decoration can materially change the final scope.
Compare like with like
SEAI recommends a written contract covering works, price, timing, payment terms and warranties. Put each quote into the same checklist before comparing totals. A low number with missing preparation, ventilation or making-good is not the same scope as a complete proposal.
See NSAI's external wall insulation guidance and our wall-insulation route checklist.