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Assess the existing finish
Loose, hollow or damp areas require investigation. A plasterer can assess whether local repairs, preparation over a sound finish or broader removal is appropriate. Decorative texture alone does not prove the whole layer must go.
Control dust and damage
Agree protection of floors, windows and retained fittings. Removal can damage weak masonry or reveal old repairs, so allow an inspection point before pricing the final preparation in detail.
Allow for the replacement finish
Include waste disposal, substrate repairs and drying in the scope. The preparation needed for paint differs from that for new plaster, tiles or a decorative finish.
Compare complete quotations
Specify the area, existing layers, access and desired finish. Check whether ceilings, corners, reinforcement and making good are included. A low removal figure does not describe a finished wall.