By far the top three questions remodeling contractors are asked are:

1. How much will it cost?
2. When can you start?
3. When will the work be finished?

While these are three great questions, they simply do not provide you with enough information about a particular contractor to enable you to make an informed, intelligent decision.
By asking the following questions you’ll stand a much greater chance of hiring the right contractor and avoid becoming another unfortunate victim of a “nightmare” remodeling story.

21 Questions You Should Ask to Help You Choose A Reputable Contractor

A reputable contractor should be able to answer all of the following questions positively. You would be wise to avoid any contractor that can’t.

(Note: We strongly urge you to print this out for use if you interview other contractors)

1. Will the remodeling contractor provide you with a written contact that clearly spells out exactly what he will do, what his price includes and does not include including a guaranteed price, payment schedule and a completion date?

2. Will the remodeling contractor require that all change orders be in writing to eliminate any misunderstandings and unexpected cost overruns?

3. Does the remodeling contractor carry general liability insurance?

4. Does the remodeling contractor carry worker’s compensation insurance?

5. Will the remodeling contractor provide you with a written lien waiver at the end of the job?

6. Is the remodeling contractor a member NAHB? Does he subscribe to their Code of Ethics?

7. Is the remodeling contractor member of the Remodelers Council?

8. Is the remodeling contractor a member of the local Better Business Bureau?

9. Does the remodeling contractor offer a 2 year unlimited warranty on all workmanship?

10. Will the remodeling contractor pull any necessary permits?

11. Who will be in charge of my job? May I meet this person or persons?

12. Has the remodeling contractor been a party in any construction litigation in the past five years?

13. Will the remodeling contractor provide you with adequate references?

14. What percentage of the contractor’s business is repeat or referral based?

15. How many projects like yours has the contractor completed in the last year or two?

16. How does the remodeling contractor plan to reduce dust and protect the rest of your home from the affects of the work? (Good contractors erect dust barriers and use drop cloths and other protective materials to protect your home).

17. How is daily and general clean up handled?

18. Will the remodeling contractor provide a Jobsite Communication Board that is checked daily for any questions or concerns you may have thought of after working hours?

19. Will the remodeling contractor provide you with a written contract that clearly spells out exactly what they will do, what the price includes and does not include and specifies a guaranteed price, payment schedule and a completion date?

20. Will a professional designer and/or architect design your job? (For projects that warrant the level of service).

21. Does the remodeling contractor provide realistic renderings, sketches and perspectives that allow you to clearly visualize your project early in the planning stages? (Again, for projects that warrant the level of service).