Hiring a general contractor is a bigger decision than most home purchases — the wrong choice can cost you time, money, and a lot of stress. Here’s what actually matters when you’re evaluating contractors, beyond just the price on the quote.
Verify the License, Bond, and Insurance
This is non-negotiable. A licensed, bonded, and insured contractor protects you if something goes wrong on the job — an injury, property damage, or work that doesn’t meet code. Ask for the license number directly and verify it rather than taking it on faith.
Get a Written, Itemized Estimate
A verbal ballpark isn’t an estimate. A real estimate breaks down materials, labor, and scope so you can compare quotes apples-to-apples and know exactly what you’re paying for. If a contractor is reluctant to put it in writing, that’s a signal.
Ask Who Handles Permitting
For any project that requires permits, find out whether the contractor handles that process directly or leaves it to you. Contractors who manage permitting themselves generally have a working relationship with the local building department, which tends to keep projects moving.
Ask About the Timeline — and What Happens If It Slips
Every project can hit delays, but a contractor who gives you a realistic timeline and communicates proactively when something shifts is very different from one who goes quiet. Ask how they handle delays before you sign anything.
Watch for Red Flags
- Requests for full payment upfront before any work starts
- No written contract or scope of work
- Pressure to sign immediately or “today-only” pricing
- Reluctance to provide license information
At the end of the day, the right contractor is the one who’s transparent about pricing, licensed and insured, and communicates clearly from the estimate through the final walkthrough. If you’re planning a project, we’re happy to answer questions and provide a free, no-obligation estimate so you can compare us against anyone else you’re considering.