How to choose a web design company: 8 questions to ask before you sign

1. Is the price fixed and in writing?

Ask for a quote with an exact amount and a list of what it includes. If someone says "we will see how much it comes to", it usually comes to more.

On larger projects it is normal to split the work into phases, but each phase should have its own fixed price.

2. What is the deadline and how will you follow progress?

The deadline should be in the quote. Even more important is how you will see progress: ideally you regularly get a link, say every week, where you can try what has been done.

3. Who owns the domain, code and design?

The domain should be registered to you, and when the work is done you should get all the access: hosting, admin, code and design files. That way you are not tied to one company and can change partners whenever you like.

4. How does the site work on a phone?

Most visitors come from a phone. Open the company’s past work on your own phone: does it load quickly, is the text easy to read and are the buttons easy to tap?

5. Is basic Google optimisation included?

A beautiful site nobody finds brings no business. Ask what is included:

• loading speed
• page titles and descriptions for search
• Google profile and map
• a sitemap and Google Search Console setup

6. Can you update the content yourself?

You change copy, photos, prices and opening hours more often than you think. Ask whether you get a simple panel and whether they will show you how to use it.

7. What does maintenance cost after launch?

Ask up front what hosting, the domain, updates and small changes cost after launch, so there are no surprises a year from now.

8. Can you see real work?

Ask for links to live websites and apps, not just screenshots. If you can, ask one of their clients what working together was like.