Hiring a Contractor? Don’t Sign on the Dotted Line Without Asking These Key Questions
Choosing a qualified contractor you can trust can feel overwhelming, especially with so many cautionary tales out there. We've all heard the horror stories about a contractor who takes your money and disappears, or starts a project only to leave it unfinished and your home in disarray. With your time, your budget, and your peace of mind at stake, it's essential to find someone who is reliable, experienced, and committed to seeing the job through with integrity. Here are some key questions to ask when interviewing general contractors to ensure you are hiring the best person for the job.
Are You Licensed, Bonded, and Insured?
This should be non-negotiable. A licensed contractor meets state and local requirements, and insurance protects you if something goes wrong on the job. Ask for proof of:
General liability insurance
Workers’ compensation coverage
State license and any specialty certifications
Can You Provide a Detailed Written Estimate?
Prevent surprises and get on the same page with your general contractor before your project begins. Ask for a comprehensive estimate that includes:
Scope of work
Labor and material costs
Payment schedule
Timeline
What’s Your Timeline for Completion and What Happens if There Are Delays?
Ask for a project start date and estimated completion date. Then ask what happens if there are delays due to weather, permits, or supply issues. You want a contractor who builds flexibility into the schedule and communicates proactively.
Will You Be On-Site Daily, or Will You Use Subcontractors?
Some contractors manage a team personally; others outsource the work. Know who will be on your property each day and who’s responsible for managing subcontractors, quality control, and timely communication.
How Do You Handle Change Orders or Unexpected Costs?
Changes happen. Whether you change your mind about the tile or a surprise is found behind a wall, be sure the contractor has a clear process for:
Quoting changes
Getting written approval
Adjusting the budget or timeline
Can I See References and Examples of Similar Projects?
Ask for three recent client references, ideally from recent customers with projects similar to yours. If possible, ask to see the completed projects in person to examine the quality of the work.
How Do You Communicate with Clients During the Project?
Will you get daily updates? A weekly check-in? A good contractor keeps you in the loop with progress updates, issues, and decisions, and answers the phone and responds to text messages promptly.
What’s Your Payment Schedule?
Never pay in full upfront. A fair payment schedule is tied to project milestones, such as:
10% at contract signing
30% after demolition or framing
30% at halfway point
30% upon final walkthrough and approval
Do You Offer a Warranty on Your Work?
A professional stands by their work. Ask for a written warranty and find out what it covers (labor, materials, structural elements) and for how long.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a contractor is about more than price; it's about trust, transparency, and craftsmanship. Asking the right questions helps you identify someone who will respect your project, your budget, and your vision.
If you're looking for a contractor who welcomes these questions and puts your peace of mind first, we’d be honored to talk. Reach out today to schedule a consultation or get a quote.
