Before you hire
10 questions to ask any remodeler
Hiring a contractor is a big decision. These are the questions we’d ask in your shoes, and what a good answer sounds like. Ask us too. We’re happy to answer every one.
- 01
Are you licensed and insured?
What a good answer sounds like
Yes, with proof. Ask for a certificate of insurance showing liability and workers’ compensation coverage, and for licenses on trade work like electrical and plumbing. A good contractor sends these without hesitation.
How we do it
Yes. We’re fully licensed, insured and bonded, with the paperwork to prove it. Just ask.
- 02
Who will actually be working in my home?
What a good answer sounds like
People you can put a name to, and one person in charge of your project. If subcontractors will handle part of the job, you should know who they are and what they’re doing.
How we do it
Our own crews. We have five full-time teams, not rotating subcontractors, and one point of contact for your project.
- 03
Who pulls the permits?
What a good answer sounds like
The contractor does, and the work gets inspected as it goes. Be wary of anyone who suggests skipping permits to save money: unpermitted work can cause problems with insurance and when you sell.
- 04
What does the payment schedule look like?
What a good answer sounds like
A reasonable deposit to get started, then payments tied to finished stages of the work. Be cautious if most of the money is due before the work begins.
- 05
Will I get the scope and price in writing?
What a good answer sounds like
Yes: written paperwork that spells out the work, materials, price, schedule and payment terms. Vague paperwork is how surprises happen.
How we do it
Yes. You get a clear written estimate covering layouts, materials and timeline, so you know exactly what’s included before we break ground.
- 06
What happens if we change something mid-project?
What a good answer sounds like
A written change order showing the added cost and any effect on the schedule, which you approve before the extra work starts.
- 07
What warranty do you offer?
What a good answer sounds like
A written warranty on the workmanship, plus the manufacturers’ warranties on products, with clear terms on what’s covered and for how long.
- 08
How long will it take, and how will you keep me posted?
What a good answer sounds like
A realistic schedule up front, one person you can call, and regular updates, including honest news when something is running late.
How we do it
You get a timeline during design planning, one point of contact, and weekly updates while we build.
- 09
Can I see work like mine and hear from past clients?
What a good answer sounds like
Photos of finished projects similar to yours, plus reviews or references you can check for yourself.
How we do it
Yes. Browse our recent projects and photo gallery, and read what homeowners say in our Google reviews.
See our recent projects → - 10
How will you protect my home and clean up?
What a good answer sounds like
Floors and furniture covered, dust kept under control, and the work area cleaned up at the end of every day.
How we do it
We clean up every day while we work.
Red flags to watch for
Whoever you hire, think twice if a contractor:
- Wants most of the money up front, or cash only
- Suggests skipping permits to save you money
- Won’t put the scope and price in writing
- Pressures you to sign today
- Can’t show proof of insurance
- Has no local address, reviews or past clients you can check
Want to hear our answers in person? Call (918) 500-3000 or send us a message.
Free estimates · No pressure