Top Questions to Ask Remodeling Contractors Before Hiring

It’s a pretty big decision to decide on a home remodeling project. Whether it’s a bathroom remodel, kitchen renovation, home addition, or something else entirely, it can take a lot of planning, time, and skill. But, the even bigger decision is what remodeling contractor you will select to help you on your renovation journey.

Most people have heard horror stories from hiring the wrong company, from week-long projects lasting months to expensive additional costs that were never properly discussed.

At Houston Services, we believe communication is key to a successful home improvement project. That’s why we’ve compiled a go-to list of questions when meeting with contractors in general.

Best 6 Questions to Ask General Contractors

Question #1: Are you licensed?

Check to make sure the company you work with has a license with a local authority. In Omaha, being a licensed contractor means the company is bonded, has been tested for knowledge, and has liability and worker’s comp insurance.

Why? Because if an unlicensed contractor doesn’t finish the job, then you’re on your own when it comes to resolving the problem. In addition, if someone gets hurt while completing your home renovations, you could be responsible for medical bills. Save yourself the headache and always check ahead of time!

Question #2: Can You Provide a List of References?

If you ask for a list of references and a contractor doesn’t have any or is unwilling to share, run! You want your remodeling contractor to have successfully completed previous projects and have a list of previous clients ready to share their *positive* experience.

Why? Because past performance is a great display or future performance. You should also be prepared to ask any references questions as well, such as how well the contractor communicated and if the job stayed on schedule.

Question #3: What is the Projected Timeline for this Project?

You may have a preferred timeline as a homeowner, and the contractor may have an entirely different estimate. The important thing when talking about schedules is to make sure everyone is on the same page.

Why? Because getting a realistic idea of the time is will take will give you the right expectations. Of course, it’s always important that this is still an estimate, and that unexpected problems can happen, altering the timeline. Either way, an experience general contractor should be able to give a projected time for completion.

Question #4: Where Can I Find Reviews?

It’s important to get more opinions from unbiased sources. Look up reviews online or ask your contractor where you can find them. You want to look for reviews in multiple places, such as on Google and Facebook to get a wide variety of responses.

Why? Just like references, you want to hear from others who have used this contractor what their experience was like. This helps gain a better idea of what they’re like to work with.

Question #5: Do You Offer a Guarantee on your Work?

The goal here is not only to hear a “yes” but to also get a specific amount of time. 6 months? One year? A lifetime? You want to know what they offer and how long it’s good for.

Why? You don’t want to work with a contractor who can’t guarantee their work! Whether it’s defective materials or workmanship problems, they should be able to guarantee their services.

Question #6: What’s the Payment Schedule?

This varies from company to company, but you should never have to pay the entire amount upfront. Plus, this question clarifies what the remodeling contractor expects from you.

Why? You should make sure the project is completed to your satisfaction before completing payment. A down payment is a reasonable expectation from a contractor but asking the project to be paid in full before it’s done comes off suspicious. 

The key to your first meeting with a contractor?

Ask questions! Think of it more like an interview. You should ask the right questions and get the right answers, to ensure both parties can work together and that you’re comfortable with the contractors in your home. Also, if there is something about your project that is particularly important to you, be sure to ask about it in the beginning. Make sure the remodeling contractor you hire has done it before and feel comfortable doing it the way you want. In the end, everyone’s happy!

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Houston Services is an insured and bonded remodeling contractor. With our experience, attention to detail, and our dedication to delivering exceptional services, we guarantee our customers are satisfied.

If you are interested in getting a free estimate from Houston Services on your next home remodel or repair, call us at (402) 507-0092.