Guide
Questions to ask a remodeler before you hire
Ask every contractor the same questions, including us, and compare the answers. The right remodeler will be glad you asked. The wrong one will get vague.
About the price
- Is the estimate written and itemized? You want scope, materials and price on paper, not a number on a napkin.
- What’s not included? Paint, permits, disposal, glass, trim: get the exclusions in writing too.
- Are there allowances? If tile or fixtures aren’t chosen yet, how much is budgeted for them, and what happens if you go over?
- How do you handle surprises? Hidden damage happens. Ask how it’s communicated and approved before it’s billed.
- What’s the payment schedule? Be cautious about paying most of the job up front.
About the people
- Who is my point of contact? One name, one number, ideally the same person through the whole job.
- Who will actually be in my house? Employees, subcontractors, or both?
- Who does plumbing and electrical, and do they hold the qualifications your city requires?
- Are you insured? Ask for a certificate of insurance and check the dates.
- Can I see your recent work? Photos of their own projects, not stock images. (Ours are coming as our first jobs finish.)
About the schedule
- When can you start, and how long will it take?
- Will materials be on hand before demo?
- Will you be working on my job every day once it starts?
- Who pulls the permit, and when are inspections?
About living through it
- How will you protect my floors and contain dust?
- What are your work hours?
- Where will materials and debris go?
- How do you clean up each day?
About after the job
- What warranty do you offer on workmanship, in writing?
- Who do I call if something isn’t right in a month?
Red flags
- A price that is only good if you sign today
- Requests for large cash payments up front
- No written contract or scope
- Vague answers about insurance or who does the work
- Suggestions to skip a required permit to save money
Ready to try these on us? Book a free estimate and ask away. Our answers are in our process and FAQ, too.