The useful answer
Supply only suits a project with a capable installer and clear ownership of survey, ordering and site coordination. Supply and installation can simplify the handoffs, but the written scope still needs to define building work and making good.
Who owns the gap between product and building?
With supply only, someone must confirm final dimensions, receive the delivery, arrange handling, fit the product and resolve the interfaces. Agree those responsibilities with your installer before buying. A supplier’s product drawing is not a substitute for checking the opening on site. If the installer did not survey or approve the order, establish how any dimensional concern will be resolved before manufacture.
With an installed package, confirm whether the price includes removal, disposal, trims, plaster repair and decoration. Structural alterations, electrical work and landscaping can remain separate. Ask who surveys and whether the installation team uses that survey. The advantage of fewer contracts depends on the actual scope and coordination, not simply the word installed on a quotation.
A situation you can apply to your own project
A homeowner has a builder fitting all windows as part of an extension. Supply only may work well if that builder accepts the survey and order-review responsibilities and has the required product experience. For a replacement occupied-home project without a nominated installer, a surveyed installation package may reduce the coordination burden. In both cases, record who does what.
Compare the practical details
| Decision | What it means for your project |
|---|---|
| Final measurements | Name the person responsible before approving the order. |
| Receiving goods | Agree unloading, checking, storage and damage reporting. |
| Installation interface | Allocate support, sealing, thresholds and roof or wall junctions. |
| Finishing and support | List making good, documentation and the first aftercare contact. |
Work through the specification
Already working with a fitter?
Supply only lets you coordinate glazing with your existing builder or glazier. Agree who checks dimensions, receives delivery and handles any fitting questions.
Want fitting included?
Choose installation in the builder. We review the site and provide a separate scope and price before you commit.
Trade projects
Use supply only for your own fitting team, or ask for installation support. Note phases, plot references and site access in your project brief.
What to check in a quote
Compare survey, removal, fitting, finishing, waste and access equipment. Check what is included rather than assuming every installation quote covers the same work.
Your checklist before the next conversation
- Appoint an installer before supply-only ordering
- Agree survey responsibility
- Compare complete scopes
- Plan delivery and handling
- Keep installation and product records together