Asking the Right Questions When Hiring a Contractor
- How long have you been in business?
- What is the time frame for starting and finishing the project?
- What is your approach to a project of this scope?
- Will you serve as the general contractor on this project hiring outside contractors for specific aspects of the project or do you have all of your own workers?
- Do you carry workers’ compensation and liability insurance? I would like to have a copy of your company’s current insurance.
- May I have references for projects that are similar to mine?
- What percentage of your business is repeat or referral business?
- How many projects like mine have you done in the past 12 months?
- Will we need a permit for this project?
- May I have a list of your suppliers?
- Do you incorporate “green” practices into each job or are you open to it, i.e. nontoxic paints, adhesives, stains, sealants; recycled materials; green insulation; nontoxic wood, carpet; energy efficient lighting; low-flow showerheads, toilets and faucets; little or no waste on remodeling sites?