1. Where did the records come from?
Ask for source names, collection methods and the path from original observation to final record. If several sources were combined, ask how conflicts and duplicates were handled.
2. What does coverage actually mean?
Clarify the population, period and geographic scope. Request a breakdown that is relevant to your use case rather than relying on one headline record count.
3. How fresh is the information?
Separate the date a file was prepared from the date its contents were observed. Ask which fields change, how updates are obtained and how historical revisions are documented.
4. What uses are permitted?
Define who can access the data, whether it can be redistributed or embedded in a product, and what happens when an engagement ends. Confirm these terms against the relevant source permissions.
5. How will we judge a useful delivery?
Agree on representative examples and concrete acceptance criteria. Describe the fields, formats, documentation and known limitations you need before committing to the full scope.