6 Interview Questions to Ask a Home Contractor for your Remodeling Project

 Jul/15/2020      484 You might not be a home improvement expert, but you are the boss of your home and this project. Dreaming up remodeling ideas is the best part of any renovation project but choosing the right home contractor is the most important part. You will entrust your money and your home to your contractor, so it’s important to take your time when interviewing candidates for your remodeling project. Make sure that you like and trust the contractor you choose, because you will be working closely together for weeks if not months.

Don’t end up with the wrong contractor. Learn what questions to ask during the interview process to find the right home contractor for your renovation project.

1. Can you provide references?

Previous customers are always a great source of information. They can share their experience working with the home contractor, how they managed the project and any issues they encountered. Online references can often be found but be careful as some have been found to be fraudulent. If using online reviews, be sure to check multiple sites. The best option is to speak with the reference directly. Ask the contractor if they can share references with you. Ask the customer if deadlines and expectations were met. What the best and worst part of the experience was and any tips they might have for you.

2. Can you breakdown pricing?

Ask potential home contractors to provide a cost breakdown, not just a summary estimate. It’s important to have an itemized list, so that you fully understand what you’re paying for and truly compare contractors. An itemized list can also help you save money, by identifying places you can make reductions like choosing different materials.

3. How long have you been doing work in this area?

The length of time a business has been open is an indication of how successful they are. Success is an indication that the contractor has done a good job. You want a contractor who has been working in your area for a longer period of time, because they will be established and have an established team of subcontractors.

4. Do you have the proper license and insurance for my project?

To obtain and maintain a license, most states require home contractors to pass an exam and take annual courses. A licensed contractor will be informed on the latest techniques and best procedures. You want your home improvement contractor to be insured because accidents happen. If someone gets hurt on the job, the contractor’s insurance will cover the medical bills. If the contractor’s business isn’t insured, the injured worker could come after the homeowner to pay their medical bills.

5. Will you be responsible for permits?

If you are looking for a home contractor for your remodeling project, you will need permits. You will want to work with a home contractor who will obtain any required permits for you. This will ensure that a building inspector will review the project and provide approval. Be cautious about a contractor who is willing to work without a permit.

6. Who will be doing the work?

Some contractors do the work themselves, while others use a foreman. Ask your home contractor who will be doing the work. If it’s not them, ask to meet the person(s) who will be working on your home. It’s important that you equally trust and want to work with them.

Need help finding a home contractor? Use HomeContractors101 to get matched with a contractor in your area. We match homeowners with experienced contractors for home improvement projects from kitchen remodels to home extensions. Submit your project today and meet contractors near you.