Home Remodeling Tips
21 Questions to Ask Any Remodeling Contractor Before You Sign
July 21, 202611 min read
Bring this list to every bid appointment. The answers will separate the three contractors you are considering faster than the prices will.
Licensing, insurance, and money
Ask for the license number, the general liability limit, proof of workers' compensation, and the payment schedule tied to milestones. Ask who holds the permit, and never accept an arrangement where you pull it yourself.
Ask what happens to your deposit if the project is delayed, and how change orders are priced and approved.
People and schedule
Who is my single point of contact? Are the carpenters employees or day labor? How many jobs will run at the same time as mine? What is the substantial-completion date in the contract?
Craft and follow-up
Which waterproofing system do you use? How do you contain dust? What is the warranty in writing, and do you return at eleven months? Can I call your last three clients, including one that had a problem?
The takeaway
A contractor who answers all of these without hedging is worth more than a bid that is five percent lower.
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