Q & A
10 Questions Every Homeowner Should Ask Before Hiring a Contractor
Most licensed contractors are skilled, honest, hardworking and financially responsible. However, home improvement remains one of the leading sources of consumer complaints nationwide. Asking the right questions upfront can significantly reduce your risk of a poor remodeling experience.
1. Are You Licensed?
Always confirm that the company you’re considering working with is properly licensed. Don’t just take their word for it—ask for a copy of their license and verify that it is current and not expired.
Why does this matter?
Working with an unlicensed contractor can be risky. In many cases, there’s a reason they aren’t licensed, which should raise concerns. Obtaining a license typically requires passing exams on building codes and practices, meeting experience requirements and demonstrating overall competence in the field.
(Roc Doc Construction Inc. is a fully incorporated privately held, bonded and insured general construction company that maintains a valid license, stays current with all building code updates and can provide proof of licensure upon request. Roc Doc Construction is BBB-accredited and A+ Rated by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) since 8/3/2018.)
2. Do You Carry General Liability Insurance?
Verify that the contractor carries general liability insurance. This coverage protects your home in the event of damage or negligence caused by the contractor, their employees or subcontractors working on your property. A $1 million policy is generally considered the industry standard.
Don’t just take their word for it—ask for a certificate of insurance, confirm the coverage is active and review the expiration dates. You can also contact the issuing provider to verify that the policy is in force.
(Roc Doc Construction Inc. carries general liability insurance and can provide a certificate upon request.)
3. Do You Carry Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
Verify that the contractor carries workers’ compensation insurance. This protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property. Without it, you could be held financially responsible for injuries sustained by the contractor or their employees.
If the contractor is a sole operator, they may be exempt from carrying this insurance. In that case, ask for proof of exemption. Be cautious—if they bring in help and someone gets injured, you could still be liable for medical costs. Similarly, if subcontractors are uninsured, you may also be at risk.
(Roc Doc Construction Inc. carries workers’ compensation insurance and can provide proof upon request.)
4. Do You Guarantee Your Work?
This is one of the most overlooked questions. Always ask about warranties and make sure they are provided in writing. A written warranty ensures you’re protected if issues arise after the project is completed.
(Roc Doc Construction Inc. offers a one-year labor warranty on all projects. Product warranties vary depending on the brand and type of materials used.)
5. Do You Provide Customer Testimonials?
A reputable contractor should be able to provide numerous testimonials from past clients. Reviews and feedback can provide insight into their reliability, timeliness and quality of work.
(Roc Doc Construction Inc. sends a Customer Satisfaction Survey to gather feedback and continually improve service.)
6. Can You Show Photos of Previous Projects?
Ask to see photos of completed projects, including before-and-after images. This helps you evaluate the contractor’s experience and the quality of their work.
(Roc Doc Construction Inc. has a portfolio of completed projects and is happy to share examples so you can feel confident in your decision.)
7. Do You Keep the Job Site Clean?
Your home is a valuable and personal space. Make sure the contractor takes steps to protect it and maintain a clean work environment throughout the project.
(Roc Doc Construction Inc. uses protective coverings, shoe booties and containment barriers when needed. They also ensure the job site is thoroughly cleaned upon completion.)
8. Do You Pull All Required Building Permits?
Some contractors avoid pulling permits because they can add time and cost to a project. However, permits are essential to ensure work is completed according to local codes and regulations. They also provide an extra layer of protection through
inspections.
Be cautious if a contractor asks you to obtain permits—it may indicate they are unlicensed or not qualified for the work. Improperly permitted work can also affect your homeowner’s insurance coverage.
(Roc Doc Construction Inc. obtains all required permits for every project.)
9. What Professional Organizations Do You Belong To?
Established contractors are often members of professional organizations, such as the Better Business Bureau or industry associations. These groups typically require background checks and references, helping ensure professionalism and accountability.
(With 31 years of construction experience serving the North County San Diego community, Roc Doc Construction Inc. has been a proud member of the Better Business Bureau since August 3, 2018, and maintains an A+ rating.)
10. How Do You Operate on a Job?
Ask detailed questions about how the contractor works. For example: What are their working hours? How do they protect your home? How do they handle debris and cleanup? Do they work continuously until the project is complete?
Understanding these details will give you a clear picture of what to expect and help
avoid surprises once work begins.
Why does this matter?
Without clear expectations, you may encounter disruptions or issues during the project. Asking these questions upfront helps you make a more informed decision.
1. Are You Licensed?
Always confirm that the company you’re considering working with is properly licensed. Don’t just take their word for it—ask for a copy of their license and verify that it is current and not expired.
Why does this matter?
Working with an unlicensed contractor can be risky. In many cases, there’s a reason they aren’t licensed, which should raise concerns. Obtaining a license typically requires passing exams on building codes and practices, meeting experience requirements and demonstrating overall competence in the field.
(Roc Doc Construction Inc. is a fully incorporated privately held, bonded and insured general construction company that maintains a valid license, stays current with all building code updates and can provide proof of licensure upon request. Roc Doc Construction is BBB-accredited and A+ Rated by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) since 8/3/2018.)
2. Do You Carry General Liability Insurance?
Verify that the contractor carries general liability insurance. This coverage protects your home in the event of damage or negligence caused by the contractor, their employees or subcontractors working on your property. A $1 million policy is generally considered the industry standard.
Don’t just take their word for it—ask for a certificate of insurance, confirm the coverage is active and review the expiration dates. You can also contact the issuing provider to verify that the policy is in force.
(Roc Doc Construction Inc. carries general liability insurance and can provide a certificate upon request.)
3. Do You Carry Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
Verify that the contractor carries workers’ compensation insurance. This protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property. Without it, you could be held financially responsible for injuries sustained by the contractor or their employees.
If the contractor is a sole operator, they may be exempt from carrying this insurance. In that case, ask for proof of exemption. Be cautious—if they bring in help and someone gets injured, you could still be liable for medical costs. Similarly, if subcontractors are uninsured, you may also be at risk.
(Roc Doc Construction Inc. carries workers’ compensation insurance and can provide proof upon request.)
4. Do You Guarantee Your Work?
This is one of the most overlooked questions. Always ask about warranties and make sure they are provided in writing. A written warranty ensures you’re protected if issues arise after the project is completed.
(Roc Doc Construction Inc. offers a one-year labor warranty on all projects. Product warranties vary depending on the brand and type of materials used.)
5. Do You Provide Customer Testimonials?
A reputable contractor should be able to provide numerous testimonials from past clients. Reviews and feedback can provide insight into their reliability, timeliness and quality of work.
(Roc Doc Construction Inc. sends a Customer Satisfaction Survey to gather feedback and continually improve service.)
6. Can You Show Photos of Previous Projects?
Ask to see photos of completed projects, including before-and-after images. This helps you evaluate the contractor’s experience and the quality of their work.
(Roc Doc Construction Inc. has a portfolio of completed projects and is happy to share examples so you can feel confident in your decision.)
7. Do You Keep the Job Site Clean?
Your home is a valuable and personal space. Make sure the contractor takes steps to protect it and maintain a clean work environment throughout the project.
(Roc Doc Construction Inc. uses protective coverings, shoe booties and containment barriers when needed. They also ensure the job site is thoroughly cleaned upon completion.)
8. Do You Pull All Required Building Permits?
Some contractors avoid pulling permits because they can add time and cost to a project. However, permits are essential to ensure work is completed according to local codes and regulations. They also provide an extra layer of protection through
inspections.
Be cautious if a contractor asks you to obtain permits—it may indicate they are unlicensed or not qualified for the work. Improperly permitted work can also affect your homeowner’s insurance coverage.
(Roc Doc Construction Inc. obtains all required permits for every project.)
9. What Professional Organizations Do You Belong To?
Established contractors are often members of professional organizations, such as the Better Business Bureau or industry associations. These groups typically require background checks and references, helping ensure professionalism and accountability.
(With 31 years of construction experience serving the North County San Diego community, Roc Doc Construction Inc. has been a proud member of the Better Business Bureau since August 3, 2018, and maintains an A+ rating.)
10. How Do You Operate on a Job?
Ask detailed questions about how the contractor works. For example: What are their working hours? How do they protect your home? How do they handle debris and cleanup? Do they work continuously until the project is complete?
Understanding these details will give you a clear picture of what to expect and help
avoid surprises once work begins.
Why does this matter?
Without clear expectations, you may encounter disruptions or issues during the project. Asking these questions upfront helps you make a more informed decision.
The Top Ten Mistakes Consumers Make When Hiring a Contractor
Q Do I Go with the Lowest Bidder?
A According to Consumer Reports, one of the biggest mistakes consumers make is being “seduced by price alone.” Would you choose the cheapest surgeon in town to operate on you or a loved one? As the saying goes, “Some of the most expensive work
you will ever pay for is cheap work.”
Your home is likely your biggest investment, so remodeling decisions should always be made with a long-term perspective. Saving a few dollars today can have far greater costs over the next 3, 5 or even 10 years of living with the results.
As New York Assistant Attorney General Nick Garin notes, “Some contractors use low quotes to win the job—then jack up the price later.”
The most important factor in evaluating the cost of a project is the value you receive for your investment. A lower price often reflects compromises in materials, workmanship or warranty coverage.
Many paint jobs, tile installations and similar projects can look excellent when first completed. The real measure of quality, however, is how they perform over time—after 18 months, 5 years or even 10 years.
Was proper preparation done, such as using the correct primer, or was paint simply applied over existing surfaces, leading to peeling later? Was the appropriate underlayment installed for tile work, or was it skipped, allowing grout to crack and fail over time?
These kinds of differences are often what separate a lower estimate from a higher one.
Q What Kind of Contract Will Protect Me?
A Insist on a written contract before any work begins. The contract should be dated and clearly list your name and address as well as the contractor’s name, address and phone number.
It should include a detailed scope of work describing exactly what will be done, along with plans, materials and where applicable, model numbers, quantities and colors. It should also specify the estimated start and completion dates. In addition, the contract should outline how change orders will be handled as well as the required notice and process for cancellation.
Finally, establish a clear payment schedule. Payments should be tied to specific stages of completion with the final payment due only when the project is finished and you are fully satisfied.
Q How Much is Too Much for a Down Payment?
A Avoid contractors who require large upfront payments. A small deposit to schedule work is normal—typically around 10% is standard. However, a demand for a substantial down payment can be a red flag that something isn’t right.
Reputable, financially stable companies do not rely on customer deposits to cover materials or general overhead costs.
Be cautious of additional warning signs, such as being asked to write checks payable to an individual rather than the company, or being pressured to pay in cash.
Q Do I Really Need to Check References? If So, How Many?
A A reputable contractor should be willing to provide several written references. When contacting past customers, ask whether the contractor stayed on schedule and met the terms of the contract and whether they were satisfied with both the quality of the work and the overall process.
You can also ask if the contractor communicated well when issues arose, showed concern for resolving problems and made any necessary corrections without resistance. Finally, ask whether they would hire the contractor again and recommend them to others.
In addition, it is wise to verify the contractor’s reputation through your local building department, trade associations or unions and consumer protection agencies, including the consumer fraud unit or district attorney’s office. The Better Business Bureau can also be a helpful resource. Contact these organizations to check for any complaints or relevant information about the contractor you are considering
Q Should I Wait Until I Know What I Want Before Contacting a Contractor or Start Now?
A It depends on your expectations and how much guidance you need. A skilled contractor can help guide decisions, but as Chris Vejar says, “If you don’t know what you want, you might not like what you get.”
Be clear about your goals and overall project scope before work begins. Changes during construction usually raise costs—especially if completed work needs to be redone.
Q Should I Ask Questions Regarding the Details of How They Work?
A It’s hard to overstate how valuable this information can be when choosing a contractor. Take the time to ask practical questions about how they work day to day—such as what time they typically start, how they protect your floors and carpets, how trash and debris will be handled and whether they work continuously through a project or in stages.
The way these questions are answered will give you important insight into the contractor’s professionalism, organization and overall approach to the job.
A According to Consumer Reports, one of the biggest mistakes consumers make is being “seduced by price alone.” Would you choose the cheapest surgeon in town to operate on you or a loved one? As the saying goes, “Some of the most expensive work
you will ever pay for is cheap work.”
Your home is likely your biggest investment, so remodeling decisions should always be made with a long-term perspective. Saving a few dollars today can have far greater costs over the next 3, 5 or even 10 years of living with the results.
As New York Assistant Attorney General Nick Garin notes, “Some contractors use low quotes to win the job—then jack up the price later.”
The most important factor in evaluating the cost of a project is the value you receive for your investment. A lower price often reflects compromises in materials, workmanship or warranty coverage.
Many paint jobs, tile installations and similar projects can look excellent when first completed. The real measure of quality, however, is how they perform over time—after 18 months, 5 years or even 10 years.
Was proper preparation done, such as using the correct primer, or was paint simply applied over existing surfaces, leading to peeling later? Was the appropriate underlayment installed for tile work, or was it skipped, allowing grout to crack and fail over time?
These kinds of differences are often what separate a lower estimate from a higher one.
Q What Kind of Contract Will Protect Me?
A Insist on a written contract before any work begins. The contract should be dated and clearly list your name and address as well as the contractor’s name, address and phone number.
It should include a detailed scope of work describing exactly what will be done, along with plans, materials and where applicable, model numbers, quantities and colors. It should also specify the estimated start and completion dates. In addition, the contract should outline how change orders will be handled as well as the required notice and process for cancellation.
Finally, establish a clear payment schedule. Payments should be tied to specific stages of completion with the final payment due only when the project is finished and you are fully satisfied.
Q How Much is Too Much for a Down Payment?
A Avoid contractors who require large upfront payments. A small deposit to schedule work is normal—typically around 10% is standard. However, a demand for a substantial down payment can be a red flag that something isn’t right.
Reputable, financially stable companies do not rely on customer deposits to cover materials or general overhead costs.
Be cautious of additional warning signs, such as being asked to write checks payable to an individual rather than the company, or being pressured to pay in cash.
Q Do I Really Need to Check References? If So, How Many?
A A reputable contractor should be willing to provide several written references. When contacting past customers, ask whether the contractor stayed on schedule and met the terms of the contract and whether they were satisfied with both the quality of the work and the overall process.
You can also ask if the contractor communicated well when issues arose, showed concern for resolving problems and made any necessary corrections without resistance. Finally, ask whether they would hire the contractor again and recommend them to others.
In addition, it is wise to verify the contractor’s reputation through your local building department, trade associations or unions and consumer protection agencies, including the consumer fraud unit or district attorney’s office. The Better Business Bureau can also be a helpful resource. Contact these organizations to check for any complaints or relevant information about the contractor you are considering
Q Should I Wait Until I Know What I Want Before Contacting a Contractor or Start Now?
A It depends on your expectations and how much guidance you need. A skilled contractor can help guide decisions, but as Chris Vejar says, “If you don’t know what you want, you might not like what you get.”
Be clear about your goals and overall project scope before work begins. Changes during construction usually raise costs—especially if completed work needs to be redone.
Q Should I Ask Questions Regarding the Details of How They Work?
A It’s hard to overstate how valuable this information can be when choosing a contractor. Take the time to ask practical questions about how they work day to day—such as what time they typically start, how they protect your floors and carpets, how trash and debris will be handled and whether they work continuously through a project or in stages.
The way these questions are answered will give you important insight into the contractor’s professionalism, organization and overall approach to the job.
