What Should I Ask a Contractor Before Hiring Them?
A few good questions upfront can tell you a lot about who you’re trusting with your home.
Start With the Right Questions
Hiring a contractor is about more than comparing estimates. You’re choosing someone to work on your home, communicate with you throughout the project, and handle the unexpected when it comes up. Taking a little time to ask questions upfront can give you a much better idea of who you’re hiring and what working with them will actually look like.
Are You Licensed and Insured?
Before hiring a contractor, make sure they carry the proper licensing and insurance for the work they’re performing. A reputable contractor should be able to provide this information and answer questions about their coverage. Requirements vary by location and type of work, so it’s always worth verifying before you sign a contract.
Have You Done Projects Like Mine Before?
Experience is important, but so is relevant experience. Ask about projects similar to yours and look at examples of completed work when possible. This can help you understand whether the contractor is familiar with the work and materials your project may involve.
Who Will I Be Communicating With?
The person you first meet may not be the person you hear from throughout the entire project. Ask who your main point of contact will be, how updates are shared, and who you should reach out to when questions come up. Knowing how communication will work from the beginning can make the whole process feel much more straightforward.
Who Will Be Working on My Home?
It’s worth knowing a little about the people who will actually be completing the work. Ask how long the contractor has worked with their crews and how projects are supervised. A strong working relationship between the contractor and their crews can go a long way toward keeping expectations and quality consistent.
What Warranties Come With the Work?
Warranties can vary depending on the contractor, materials, and type of project. Ask what is covered, how long the coverage lasts, and who you should contact if an issue comes up later. It’s also helpful to understand the difference between a manufacturer’s warranty on the materials and the contractor’s warranty on their workmanship.
What Is Included in My Estimate?
Two estimates with different prices aren’t necessarily offering the same project. Before comparing the bottom line, look closely at what each contractor has included.
Ask about the materials being used, the scope of the work, cleanup, permits when applicable, and anything that could result in an additional charge. If something on the estimate isn’t clear, ask about it before signing.
What Happens If Something Unexpected Comes Up?
Not everything can be seen before work begins. Ask how your contractor handles unexpected damage, changes to the original scope, or additional costs that come up along the way. You should know how those decisions will be communicated and approved before additional work moves forward.
How Will You Protect My Home During the Project?
Construction can be messy, even when the work is happening primarily outside. Ask what precautions will be taken to protect your property and the areas surrounding the work.
It’s also worth asking what cleanup looks like during the project rather than only after the work is finished.
How Long Have You Been in Business?
A contractor’s history can tell you a lot about their experience and reliability. Ask how long the company has been in business and take a look at their reputation in the community. A warranty only means so much if you can’t reach the contractor later, so it’s worth choosing a company with an established track record and a history of standing behind their work.
Choosing a Contractor You Feel Comfortable Working With
There isn’t one question that can tell you whether a contractor is the right fit. Pay attention to the bigger picture. Are they willing to answer your questions? Do they explain things clearly? Do you understand what you’re agreeing to before you’re asked to sign?
A good contractor should help you understand the project and what to expect throughout the process. Taking a little extra time to ask questions upfront can help you make a more informed decision and feel more comfortable with the team you’re trusting with your home.