10 Things to Ask Your Contractor

Need to hire a contractor for that home improvement project? Ask these 10 questions first.

1. Are you a licensed contractor?

Obtaining the proper license in the state or city where the work will be completed can help ensure that the contractor has been trained in the proper practices and regulations specific to his or her specialty.

2. Do you carry general liability insurance?

Carrying adequate general liability insurance helps ensure that if any property damage occurs on the site, the contractor is liable.

3. Do you carry workers compensation insurance?

If the contractor does not carry workers compensation insurance, you, the homeowner, may be liable for anything that happens on your property.

4. What type of guarantee do you provide?

Guarantees can cover everything from price to workmanship to product warranties and more. A guarantee is only as the company that stands behind it.

5. How does the process work from beginning to end?

The contractor’s working process should be explained to you from beginning to end. This will help ensure both parties are staying on track to the agreed contract and that you will understand how the contractor’s company operates.

6. Who will be completing the work?

Knowing the worker’s names, their association with the company and their skill sets can help provide you peace of mind.

7. Can you provide references?

A contractor should be willing to provide you with references from previous clients that you can contact to ask how their projects went.

8. What kind of documentation or paperwork will you provide?

A contractor who keeps and provides good documentation and paperwork will help you keep a better record of the transaction and the project.

9. Will all permits be pulled as required?

Depending on the scope of the work, the contractor should pull all required permits to ensure that all safety and building code regulations and inspections are met for the proper installation.

10. Do you belong to any professional organizations?

A contractor who belongs to a professional organization lends him or herself to better referrals and better business ethics.

Asking these questions will allow you to gain a better understanding of the professionalism and craftsmanship of the contractor you’re thinking about hiring. These questions can also help ensure that your assets are protected and the work will be completed to your standards.