Always verify a contractor's license and insurance before any work begins.
Get a detailed written contract — verbal agreements are not enough protection.
Understand who does the actual work: contractors often hire subcontractors.
Never pay the full project cost upfront; staggered payment schedules protect you.
Confirm permit responsibilities in writing before the project starts.
Multiple bids help you understand fair market pricing and scope differences.
20–40 min
Summary
22 items · 20–40 minutes
Why These Questions Matter Before You Sign Anything
Hiring a contractor is one of the most significant financial decisions a homeowner makes. Whether you're renovating a bathroom, replacing a roof, or adding a deck, the person you hire determines not just the quality of the outcome but also your legal and financial exposure. Problems that surface mid-project — unlicensed work, missing insurance, vague contracts — are far harder to resolve than those caught at the interview stage.
This checklist gives you a structured framework to evaluate any contractor before committing. It pairs well with our home renovation glossary if you encounter unfamiliar contract terminology along the way, and with our guide on permits, inspections, and code to understand the paperwork your project may require.
If you're still deciding whether to hire out at all, see our breakdown of DIY vs. hiring out to clarify which tasks realistically warrant a pro.
Required
State Contractor Licensing Board
Verify that a contractor's license is active and in good standing in your state.
Required
Certificate of Insurance (COI)
A document from the contractor's insurer confirming coverage types, limits, and policy dates.
Optional
Printed Reference Call Notes
A simple template to record answers when calling a contractor's past clients.
Optional
Written Bid Comparison Sheet
A side-by-side format to compare scope, materials, timeline, and price across multiple bids.
The Contractor Interview Checklist
Work through these questions with every contractor you're seriously considering. Document their answers — ideally in writing — so you have a reference point when reviewing bids and contracts.
Credentials and Verification
Ask for the contractor's license number and verify it with your state or local licensing board before the first meeting ends.Must
Request proof of general liability insurance and confirm the policy is current and covers your project type.Must
Ask whether workers' compensation insurance is in place for all workers on your property.Must
Check the contractor's standing with the Better Business Bureau or your state contractor board for complaints or disciplinary actions.Should
Request at least three references from projects similar in scope to yours, and actually call them.Should
Scope, Subcontracting, and Crew
Ask which portions of the work the contractor will perform directly versus subcontract to other parties.Must
Request the names of any subcontractors and verify that they also carry appropriate licenses and insurance.Must
Confirm who will be the on-site supervisor on a daily basis and how accessible they will be.Should
Ask how many other projects the contractor is running concurrently, as this affects scheduling and attention to your job.Nice to have
Contract and Documentation
Require a written contract that specifies the full scope of work, materials, timeline, and payment terms before any work begins.Must
Confirm that the contract addresses how change orders will be handled, documented, and priced.Must
Ask whether the contractor will pull the required permits and confirm this responsibility is stated in the contract.Must
Request a detailed written timeline with milestones, not just a start and end date.Should
Payment Structure
Negotiate a staggered payment schedule tied to project milestones rather than paying a large sum upfront.Must
Avoid any contractor who demands full payment — or more than roughly one-third — before work begins.Must
Clarify what the final payment triggers and ensure it is not released until you have inspected the completed work.Must
Ask how the contractor handles cost overruns and what notification process they follow before exceeding the agreed budget.Should
Warranties and Dispute Resolution
Ask what warranty the contractor provides on workmanship and get the terms in writing.Must
Understand how manufacturer warranties on materials are transferred to you as the homeowner.Should
Ask how the contractor handles disputes, defective work, or situations where you are unsatisfied with results.Should
Confirm whether the contract includes a lien waiver process to protect you from supplier or subcontractor claims against your property.Nice to have
Never Skip the License and Insurance Check
Hiring an unlicensed contractor can void your homeowner's insurance coverage for work-related damage and expose you to liability if a worker is injured on your property. These are not formalities — they are your primary financial protections. Always verify both directly with the issuing authority or insurer, not just from documents the contractor provides.
Once you've selected a contractor, keep tabs on the full project through our broader home maintenance hub, which covers ongoing upkeep beyond renovation work. And if you're a newer homeowner still building your knowledge base, our guide on routine upkeep for first-time homeowners is a helpful companion resource.
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