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Whether you need to build a home, remodel a bathroom, or complete a large landscaping project, hiring a contractor may feel a bit daunting. First and foremost, the person or team you hire should be able to complete a job well and within the agreed-upon time. How do you find the right person for the job? Start with referrals, online searches, and reviews from the Better Business Bureau. Identify at least three contractors qualified for your project, then schedule an appointment to get a quote. Finally, be prepared with these seven questions to ensure you make an informed decision.
Are you licensed and insured?
This should be the first question asked when hiring a contractor. It is arguably one of the most important questions to ask. If something goes wrong on the project and the contractor is not licensed and insured, any damage or misstep could be the homeowner’s responsibility.
The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries requires all contractors, remodelers, and handymen to be registered. State law also requires any contract over $1,000 to sign a disclosure statement from the contractor. [RCW 18.27.114(1) or (2)] Additionally, there are steps you can take if a job is not done well. However, this recourse can only be taken if the contractor is licensed and insured by the state.
You can confirm that a contractor, tradesperson, or business is licensed and insured using the online Verify tool from Washington State.
What is your experience with this type of project?
Take into account the size and scope of your project. If you are building a new home, find a contractor with a lot of experience with new home builds. If possible, visit neighborhoods where they’ve built homes recently and see homes they built a decade or more ago to see how they’re doing now. If you are remodeling a bathroom or kitchen, ensure the contractor has experienced subcontractors on their team for plumbing, cabinetry, tile work, and countertops.
Each project will require a specific type of knowledge and a network of sub-contractors to perform the job well. Ensure all potential contractors have the proper network and expertise while vetting them.
What is the estimated cost and timeline?
Each contractor should be able to create a quote for the project. It is in their (and your) best interest to complete a project on time and within budget. The quote should include building material costs, labor, and warranty terms. Additionally, they should include information about the subcontractors they will use.
Labor and material costs are most likely fixed. However, there should be room to negotiate the payment schedule. To incentivize on-time, quality work, you can propose paying out percentages of the project at certain completion points when hiring a contractor.
How many projects will you work on simultaneously?
There is no right or wrong answer to how many projects a contractor handles at one time. This question helps gauge the timing of your project’s completion. If a contractor is particularly booked up, it may take a while to get on their calendar. If timing is important to you, asking about this could provide valuable insight. For example, if you’re getting this work done before putting your home on the market, your selling timeline may be crucial.
How often will we communicate?
Communication with your contractor is a vital part of the process. Discuss how often they plan to be on-site to oversee project completion. Review the best method of communication (calling, texting, or e-mailing). If you have a special request, when does that need to be communicated? What is the deadline for changes? You will want to be a strong partner with your contractor to create a positive working relationship.
Can I speak with a former client?
Learn about a former customer’s experience. Use these same talking points when you are chatting with their former client. Gather insight into the quality, timeframe, and customer service they received from the contractor you are vetting. You can also ask neighbors about a specific local contractor. Or, join a local social media group and see if anyone has experience with the contractor you’re considering hiring.
What is the warranty for the completed work?
Warranties serve two purposes in relationship to contractors. On one hand, they protect the consumer (you) from poor craftsmanship. On the other hand, they protect the contractor from being held liable for their work indefinitely. Carefully review the warranty clause in the contract when hiring a contractor.
In the United States, there is the legal concept of implied warranty. The concept is that any work a contractor does will have good workmanship and habitability. From there, each state has its intricacies of laws relating to statutes of limitations and repose. Washington-specific laws can be found under RCW 64.35.305.
Whoever you decide to use, these questions should give you a clear picture of the best contractor for your home project. By asking clear, focused questions, you can find the best person for the job at the right price, with a clear understanding of the quality and work to be completed.
