Questions to Ask Your Contractor

What to Know Before You Hire

You know you want a remodel contractor who gets your vision, does quality work, and can be trusted to handle your time and finances appropriately, but short of having a crystal ball, it’s hard to know how to find that.

The following questions will get you close! Here are 9 key questions you should ask every contractor you interview (us included!) when you’re beginning your remodel journey:

1. How long have you been in the remodeling business?

This can give you an idea of their level of experience and how familiar they are with the latest in code requirements and design trends. We have been in business for over 23 years and have worked with every local jurisdiction in the area.

2. Do you have experience with projects similar to mine?

Every project has its own unique aspects, so finding a contractor with relevant experience can be beneficial. We screen our projects to ensure we are the best fit and will recommend another company if we’re not the perfect match to remodel your home!

3. What is your project timeline and work schedule?

Knowing when the project will start and end, as well as when the workers will be on-site, can help you plan. When we remodel your home, you will receive a project schedule, milestones, and our working hours, which are typically M-F, 8am-6pm.

4. How do you handle payments and payment schedules?

This is critical to understand up front so you can budget appropriately. Our bids are firm-fixed price and clients receive a breakdown of the cost of each functional section of the project. Payment schedules are provided prior to project start.

5. Are you licensed and insured, and do you “pull permits” when necessary?

You’ll want to ensure the contractor is licensed to operate in your area and has sufficient insurance coverage in case of accidents or damage. We are licensed, bonded, insured, and we permit every project that needs one. Some small projects may not need a permit, but when it’s required by the jurisdiction, we work with the permitting office and oversee all details of the application through approval.

6. How are changes during the project managed?

Changes and unexpected issues often arise during remodeling projects. Ask how these would be handled, and how they may affect the cost and timeline. Our Change Order process is simple: we will only submit for a change in the event that there is unforeseen discovered issues, correcting code violations, or via client requests. Change Orders are sent and discussed with the client, and approved prior to the change being completed.

7. What warranty do you offer for your work?

You’ll want to know what is covered if something goes wrong after the project is completed. We warranty our craftsmanship (and that of our Trade Partners) for TWO YEARS, which exceeds current state requirements for contractors.

8. Can you provide references from past clients?

Speaking with previous clients can give you insights into the contractor’s quality of work, reliability, and customer service. We pride ourselves on “feedback looping” every project, which includes receiving feedback from our clients. We’re happy to share contact information for those clients who are willing to share their information.

9. Can you provide a detailed, written proposal with a breakdown of the project scope?

A written proposal can help prevent misunderstandings about the cost and scope of the project and you should expect it. Our estimates provide a clear breakdown of each functional cost, so you know what you’re paying for.

Get Answers!

Ready to practice? Give us a call and let’s talk through your remodel project together!

JL completed our kitchen remodel on time and on budget. Their workmanship, communication, and project leadership was excellent.

Mark M.