Hiring
12 Questions to Ask a Contractor Before You Sign Anything
“What should I ask before hiring a contractor?”
Updated September 2, 2026 · 6 min read
The short answer
Ask about scope, who is actually on site, permits, how change orders are approved, the payment schedule, insurance, warranty terms and how the site is protected. Ask every candidate the same questions in the same order so their answers are comparable.
Key takeaways
- Never pay a large deposit before a written scope exists.
- Change orders should require your written approval before work proceeds.
- Ask who is physically on site, not just who sold you the job.
- Get warranty terms in writing, separated into workmanship and product.
Before the quote arrives
These questions shape the estimate you receive, so ask them at the walkthrough rather than after.
- What is included, and what have you deliberately excluded?
- Which materials are specified, and which are allowances?
- Who pulls the permits and schedules inspections?
- What could you find that would change this price?
About the people doing the work
The person who quotes is not always the person who builds. Knowing the crew structure tells you who to call when something needs deciding.
- Are your crews employees or subcontractors?
- Who is my day-to-day point of contact?
- How many other jobs will run at the same time?
- Can you show licence and insurance certificates?
About money and time
Payment should follow progress. A schedule tied to milestones protects both sides, and a written change-order process prevents verbal agreements becoming disputes.
- What is the payment schedule tied to?
- How are change orders priced and approved?
- What is the start date and expected duration?
- What does the warranty cover, and for how long?
Common questions
Quick answers homeowners ask next.
- How large a deposit is normal?
- Deposits vary with material ordering, but payments should track completed work. Be cautious about paying a large share of the total before anything is built.
- Should I hire a contractor without a written contract?
- No. A written scope, price, schedule and change-order process protects you even on small jobs.
- How do I check a contractor's insurance?
- Ask for a certificate of insurance directly from their insurer rather than a copy forwarded by the contractor.
Where to go next