What to ask, what to look for in a written estimate, and the red flags that should make you walk away — before you sign anything.
Choosing a contractor is the decision that shapes everything else about your project: the schedule, the budget and how the finished work holds up. A few direct questions up front will tell you most of what you need to know.
1. Are you insured — and can I see the certificate?
Any contractor working in your home should carry general liability insurance. Ask for a certificate of insurance and check the dates. A professional will send it without hesitation.
2. Who will actually be on the job?
Find out who runs the crew day to day and who you call when you have a question. On owner-led jobs, that is usually the owner — which means fewer handoffs and faster answers.
3. Can I see work similar to mine?
Photos of finished projects are good. Photos taken during the work are better, because they show what happens behind the walls: waterproofing, framing, prep.
4. What exactly does the estimate include?
A good estimate separates labor, materials and allowances. If a line just says "bathroom remodel" with one number next to it, ask for the breakdown.
5. How do you handle changes?
Something always comes up — an extra outlet, a different tile. Ask how change orders are priced and approved, and make sure it happens in writing.
6. What does the schedule look like?
You should know the order of the work, roughly how long each phase takes, and which days rooms will be out of service.
7. How do you protect my home?
Floor protection, dust control and daily cleanup are signs of a crew that respects your space. Ask what they do — and watch whether they do it.
Red flags
- Pressure to sign the same day
- A large cash deposit before any work is scheduled
- No written estimate or contract
- Vague answers about insurance
Have questions about your own project? Request a free estimate and we will walk through it with you.