What questions should I ask before hiring a contractor?

Short answer

Ask for the license number, proof of general liability and workers' compensation insurance, a written itemized estimate, the payment schedule, who pulls the permits, the start and completion dates, and the warranty. Get every answer in writing before you sign anything.

Full explanation

A short, consistent list of questions tells you more than a sales pitch. Ask every contractor you are considering the same questions, and compare the answers side by side.

Credentials and coverage
- What is your license number and which authority issued it?
- Is the company insured for general liability, and can the insurer send me a certificate of insurance directly?
- Do you carry workers'' compensation for everyone on my property?

Scope and paperwork
- What exactly is included — and what is excluded?
- Will you provide a written, itemized estimate?
- Who pulls the permits, and are permits included in the price?
- Who will actually be on site: your employees or subcontractors?

Money and schedule
- What is the total price, and is it fixed, cost-plus, or time and materials?
- What is the payment schedule, and what does each payment release?
- What happens to the price if we hit hidden damage or a change order?
- When will work start, and when will it be substantially complete?

After the work
- What warranty do you provide on labor, and what manufacturer warranties apply to materials?
- Will you provide lien waivers or releases from subcontractors and suppliers?
- Can I contact three recent customers with similar projects?

A professional contractor will answer all of this without hesitation. Hesitation is information.

State-specific rules

In Florida, ask specifically whether the license is certified (statewide) or registered (local), and confirm workers'' compensation coverage. Construction employers in Florida generally must carry workers'' compensation with one or more employees — a lower threshold than most other industries.

Also ask who applies for permits. Florida permitting is handled by your local building department, and permit responsibility should be stated in the contract.

Common mistake to avoid

Do not accept "we're insured" as an answer. Ask for the certificate of insurance to come directly from the insurance agency, listing the coverage dates and the policy holder's exact business name.

Sources & References

How To Avoid a Home Improvement Scam — Federal Trade Commission official source
How to Protect Yourself: Contractors — Office of the Attorney General, State of Florida official source
Licensing Portal — Verify a License — Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation official source

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