10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Remodeling Contractor

Hiring the right remodeling contractor is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your home. Before signing any contract, these ten questions will help you evaluate any contractor and protect your investment.

**1. Are you licensed and insured?** Any reputable contractor should carry general liability insurance and workers' compensation. Ask for certificates of insurance and verify they're current. In Georgia, contractors performing work over $2,500 should be licensed.

**2. Can you provide references from recent projects?** Ask for references from projects completed in the last 12 months, ideally in your area. Actually call those references and ask about communication, timeline adherence, and quality of work.

**3. Who will be on my job site every day?** Some contractors sell the job and then hand it off to subcontractors you've never met. Understand who will be managing your project daily and what their qualifications are.

**4. How do you handle unexpected issues or change orders?** Every remodel encounters surprises. Ask how they communicate unexpected findings, how change orders are priced, and what the approval process looks like.

**5. What does your payment schedule look like?** Be wary of contractors who require large upfront payments. A typical payment schedule involves a deposit at signing, milestone payments during the project, and a final payment upon completion.

**6. How do you protect my home during construction?** Ask about dust containment, floor protection, and how they handle cleanup at the end of each day. A professional contractor takes care of your home as if it were their own.

**7. What permits are required, and who pulls them?** Permits are required for most significant remodeling work. A reputable contractor handles permitting as part of the project — if a contractor suggests skipping permits, walk away.

**8. What is the realistic timeline for my project?** Get a written timeline with key milestones. Understand what factors could extend the timeline and how they communicate delays.

**9. Do you offer a warranty on your work?** Reputable contractors stand behind their work. Ask about warranty terms for both labor and materials.

**10. Can I see examples of similar projects you've completed?** Photos are helpful, but visiting a completed project in person is even better. Ask if any past clients would be willing to let you see their finished renovation.