Ten Questions to Ask A Prospective Contractor
You’ve made the decision to remodel. Now, how to you decide which contractor is the right fit for you? Here are some questions to ask the contractors you are considering.
1. How will you communicate with me?
With the advances in technology, there are a variety of ways you can communicate with a contractor. He may have some builder software, he may text or maybe the traditional phone call. Ask up front how he expects to relay information to you and how you can get ahold of him.
2. How big is your company?
Sometimes big isn’t always better. Who will be working on my project? Will they know my concerns? Or will my job just be handed off without addressing issues? Ask ahead of time his process.
3. Is your company licensed?
You might be surprised to find a lot of contractors aren’t even appropriately licensed. This adds legitimacy to their company if their license is current.
4. Are you insured?
Similar to number three, this is another valid concern. If someone gets hurt at my house I want to make sure it is my contractor’s responsibility – not mine.
5. Can we have scheduled meetings to discuss the progress?
These meetings will add some accountability to the contractor. You can fully address issues that may come up in these meetings.
6. Are you accommodating?
Will you listen to my concerns and take time to understand my vision? No two remodels are the same.
7. What are your payment terms?
Can I ensure the work will be complete before I write that last check?
8. Can I get it in writing?
I want a firm number on what to expect this project to cost me.
9. What is the time frame I have to notice flaws or issues that need repair once the job is complete?
Will you come back to fix them in a timely manner?
10. What references do you have to validate your work?
Don’t be shy to ask for phone numbers of previous clients to get an idea on this contractor’s skill level and their experience with his company.
Not an exhaustive list, but it’s somewhere to start. After all, they are going to be a frequent visitor to your home; you ought to like them.

