Exhibition space reflects your image. When you task the job of reflecting your image to an exhibition stand company – it needs to stand up top the job ...literally.

One major factor when choosing an exhibition stand contractor is this; 'don't assume they are mind readers'.

With this in mind get your full specification down in writing. Don't forget such tasks as clearing up and tidying site at the end of the working day. If you expect your exhibition stand contractor to clean up, put it in writing. If you expect your exhibition stand contractor to dispose of building rubble ... record it.

Don't be embarrassed to ask for references, and check them – anyone can say, “ I did the exhibition stand for such and such”. Call them and ask if they are happy with the work, the exhibition stand contractor and crew and the after sales service; warranty and guarantee.

Ideally, you should obtain at least three exhibition stand contractor quotes, but the more, the better. The cheapest isn't always the best option and double check that the quote complies with the written specification. Don't get drawn into 'estimates' – you need to demand a fixed quote. An estimate is only a flexible price that could soar when the work begins and estimates are always subject to change. Make sure you agree to terms in the event of further materials being required ..who pays?

Obtain at least three written quotes from different exhibition stand contractors – do not always choose the cheapest. Make sure that all quotes reflect the same work specification in terms of materials, site clearance, time scale etc. Make certain that wherever possible these are fixed quotes rather than estimates which are subject to change.

Apart from references, ask your exhibition stand contractor what types of work they have done before. They may specialise in certain jobs such as interactive multimedia.

How long have they been in business? A long clean pedigree is worth far more than a nice man with a good sales pitch!

What guarantees to they offer? Is the guarantee backed by a reputable insurance company that will cover the work should the exhibition stand contractor go out of business half way through the job.

Does the exhibition stand contractor have membership to a trade association or professional body? If they are, ring the association and verify their membership. Ask what protection they offer should the job go wrong. Do they have an arbitration system should disputes fail.

These are sensible precautions and offer some sort of safeguard.

Exhibition stand projects often go over time and over budget. Agree on an expected time frame and penalties should the deadline not be met ...get it in writing and signed.