PROJECT PLANNING GUIDE
What measurements should you include in a home service request?
Good measurements do not have to be perfect. Their purpose is to give a local professional enough information to understand the likely size of your project before contacting you.
QUICK ANSWER
Use feet for dimensions such as length, width or height. Use square feet for surfaces such as floors, walls, lawns and driveways. Choose N/A only when dimensions do not meaningfully apply to the service you need.
When to use feet
Choose feet when you are describing individual dimensions. Examples include the length of a fence, the width of a gate, ceiling height, the size of an opening or the length and width of a junk pile.
When to use square feet
Square feet works best for surfaces and areas. Common examples include a room floor, walls to be painted, a driveway, a deck, a lawn or a pressure washing area. If you only know length and width, provide both; the provider can confirm the final area.
When N/A is appropriate
Use N/A for problems where measurements do not add useful context, such as an HVAC system that stopped cooling, a breaker that repeatedly trips or a single leaking fixture. Add the model, location, symptoms and photos instead.
Photos make estimates clearer
Take a wide photo showing the entire work area and closer photos showing damage, stains, access points or equipment labels. Never climb, touch damaged wiring or enter an unsafe area just to take a picture.
INFORMATION TO HAVE READY
Homeowner checklist
- ✓ Write down length, width and height when relevant
- ✓ Say whether the number is exact or estimated
- ✓ Photograph the full work area and important details
- ✓ Mention gates, stairs, pets or other access limits
- ✓ Select N/A only when dimensions do not apply
NEED LOCAL HELP?
Send a detailed handyman request.
Submitting a request is free for homeowners and does not obligate you to hire a provider.