What questions should you ask before hiring a general contractor?

# Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring a General Contractor

Licensing & Insurance - Are you licensed in this state/county? (Ask to verify) - Do you carry liability insurance and workers' compensation? - Can you provide proof of current insurance?

Experience & References - How many years have you been in business? - Do you have references from similar projects? (Call them!) - Can I see photos of completed work?

Project Details - Have you worked on projects like mine before? - What's your timeline and when can you start? - Will you handle all permits and inspections, or will I?

Costs & Contracts - Can you provide a detailed written estimate? - What payment schedule do you require? (Avoid large upfront payments) - Are there additional costs that might come up? - Do you offer a warranty on your work?

Communication & Process - How will we communicate during the project? - Who supervises the daily work? - How do you handle changes to the scope of work? - What's your cleanup process?

Red Flags to Watch Avoid contractors who demand large deposits, won't provide references, pressure you to sign quickly, or quote significantly lower than others. Also be wary if they're not licensed or can't show proof of insurance.

Pro Tips Get at least 3 estimates before deciding. Check online reviews and the Better Business Bureau. Make sure everything is in a detailed contract—don't rely on verbal agreements. A good contractor will be happy to answer all your questions and provide documentation.

Taking time upfront to ask these questions can save you money, headaches, and ensure your project goes smoothly!