Hiring the wrong contractor is one of the most expensive mistakes a homeowner can make. This checklist covers every question you should ask before signing a contract.
Licensing and Insurance (Non-Negotiable)
Questions 1–3: Are you licensed in this state? (Ask for the license number and verify it online.) Do you carry general liability insurance? (Ask for a certificate of insurance naming you as additionally insured.) Do you carry workers' compensation insurance? (If a worker is injured on your property and the contractor doesn't have workers' comp, you may be liable.) These three questions are non-negotiable — a 'no' to any of them is an automatic disqualifier.
Experience and References
Questions 4–6: How long have you been in business? (Longer is generally better — most fly-by-night contractors don't survive 5+ years.) Have you done projects similar to mine? (Ask to see photos.) Can you provide three references from similar projects in the past 2 years? (And actually call them — ask about timeline, budget adherence, communication, and whether they'd hire the contractor again.)
Subcontractors and Crew
Questions 7–8: Will you use subcontractors? (Most general contractors do — this isn't necessarily a problem, but you should know.) If so, are they licensed and insured? (The GC's insurance may not cover subcontractors' workers.) Who will be on-site supervising the work daily? A contractor who is never on-site is a contractor who isn't managing the project.
Permits and Code Compliance
Questions 9–10: Will you pull all required permits? (The answer should always be yes — a contractor who suggests skipping permits to save money is not acting in your interest.) Who is responsible for scheduling inspections? (The permit-puller is responsible — make sure this is clear in the contract.)
Contract, Payment, and Timeline
Questions 11–13: Can I see a sample contract? (A good contractor has a standard contract — review it carefully before signing.) What is your payment schedule? (Avoid contractors who require more than 10–15% upfront; milestone-based payments tied to completed work are standard.) What is the project timeline, and what are the consequences if it's not met? (Get start and completion dates in writing.)
Warranties and Change Orders
Questions 14–15: What warranty do you provide on your labor? (One year is standard; longer is better.) How do you handle change orders? (All changes to scope or price should be in writing before the work is done — verbal agreements about changes are unenforceable and lead to disputes.) A contractor who resists written change orders is a contractor who plans to dispute them later.
