Start with what the sign needs to do
A primary exterior building sign, a temporary opening banner, and a lobby logo are different assignments. Define how far away it needs to read, whether it needs illumination, and what the surrounding architecture allows.
Before asking for a number, collect the address, façade photos, approximate dimensions, original logo files, and any landlord design criteria. Mark measurements as estimates unless they have been surveyed.
Material and lighting drive the scope
Printed aluminum composite, dimensional letters, illuminated channel letters, and window vinyl all involve different fabrication and mounting needs. The cheapest material to produce isn't automatically the best choice for the exposure or expected service life.
Lighting adds electrical work, hardware, wiring access, and maintenance considerations. Ask whether fabrication, transformers, electrical installation, and the final mount are included in the proposed price.
Installation is its own project
A wall sign installed from a ladder is a different operation from one that needs a lift, sidewalk access, special anchoring, or several workers. Confirm the wall surface, access hours, lift requirements, and the expected condition of the site.
Ask who removes old signage, patches holes, disposes of materials, and cleans the work area. A quote that excludes these tasks can still be fair—provided everybody knows who will handle them.
Approvals aren't a footnote
Depending on the property, signs may require landlord approval, local permits, electrical review, or additional site-specific permissions. Requirements vary, so don't assume what was approved down the block applies to your building.
Confirm who prepares drawings, who submits applications, who pays fees, and who has authority to approve fabrication. The sign should not enter final production with approval responsibility still floating around.
Get comparable estimates
Send the same dimensions, photographs, logo files, lighting brief, material expectations, and timing to each supplier. Ask for line-item descriptions of production, installation, and exclusions.
If a new location also needs window graphics, door hours, interior branding, and wayfinding, planning them as a coherent package can reduce mismatched decisions later.