Hiring a Contractor

Hiring the right remodeling contractor is crucial to ensuring your project is completed on time, within budget, and to a high standard. Here are my best tips for finding and hiring a reliable contractor:

1. Get Multiple Bids & Compare

• If possible, obtain at least three bids from different contractors. In today's climate, it's unlikely you will be able to do this. This is why you must find a Contractor who meets the criteria laid out here.

• Compare pricing, scope of work, timelines, and materials used.

• A lowball bid can signal cheap materials or cutting corners, while an overpriced bid may not provide added value.

2. Verify Licenses & Insurance

• Ensure they have a valid contractor's license (check your state licensing board).

• Ask for proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance to protect yourself from potential lawsuits.

3. Check Reviews, References & Past Work

• Look at online reviews (Google, Yelp, BBB, Angi, Houzz, etc.).

• Ask for at least three references and call past clients to ask about their experience.

• Visit completed projects if possible, or ask for before-and-after photos.

4. Get Everything in Writing

• Your contract should include:

  • Detailed scope of work (materials, brand names, specific tasks).

  • Start and completion dates with penalties for delays.

  • Payment schedule (avoid large upfront payments).

  • Change order process (how extra costs are handled).

  • Warranty details for both labor and materials.

5. Avoid Large Upfront Payments

• Never pay more than 10-20% upfront.

• Payments should be tied to project milestones (e.g., framing complete, drywall installed) or a reasonable expectation of work that will be completed each week.

• Keep a final payment (10%) until after a final walkthrough and punch list completion.

6. Ask About Permits & Building Codes

• A reputable contractor will pull permits for you.

• If they suggest skipping permits, it's a red flag—unpermitted work can cause issues with resale or insurance claims.

7. Ensure They Have a Reliable Crew & Subcontractors

• Ask: Do they use in-house workers or subcontractors?

• Find out who will be on-site daily and who supervises the project.

• Get a written timeline to ensure they’re not juggling too many jobs.

8. Communicate Expectations Clearly

• Have a point of contact (project manager).

• Establish a communication plan (weekly meetings, text updates, email reports).

• Keep a log of discussions and changes to avoid misunderstandings.

9. Watch Out for Red Flags

🚩 High-pressure sales tactics (e.g., "Sign today for a discount!")

🚩 No written contract or vague terms.

🚩 Requests for cash payments or large upfront payments.

🚩 No proof of insurance or license.

🚩 Bad reviews or multiple complaints with BBB or licensing boards.

10. Trust Your Gut

If something feels off, don’t ignore it. A great contractor should be professional, transparent, and easy to communicate with.

Would you like help with a specific part of the hiring process, such as reviewing a contractor’s bid or creating a checklist for vetting candidates?

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