Last reviewed July 22, 2026
Questions to ask a contractor before signing
Ask these questions before you commit. Clear answers reduce change orders, payment disputes, and scope surprises.
A polished quote is not enough. Before you sign, confirm the contractor can legally do the work, carry proper insurance, and stand behind the scope in writing.
Credentials and insurance
- Are you licensed for this project type in my city or state?
- Can you provide current general liability and workers compensation certificates?
- Will you pull required permits, and whose name will appear on them?
Scope and materials
- What exact materials and brands are included?
- What is excluded, and how are exclusions priced if needed later?
- Who handles disposal, protection of existing finishes, and final cleanup?
Money and schedule
- What is the payment schedule, and which milestones unlock each payment?
- How are change orders documented and approved?
- What is the expected start window and working duration?
- What warranty covers labor and materials, and who honors it?
How to use the answers
Write the answers into the contract or an addendum. If two contractors give different answers on permits, materials, or exclusions, normalize the scope before comparing price. CostReno can help review one quote in depth or compare two bids side by side.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions should I ask a contractor?
Focus on 8 to 12 high-impact questions covering license, insurance, scope, timeline, payment, and change orders. Quality matters more than quantity.
Should I ask for references?
Yes. Ask for recent local projects similar to yours, then verify permit history and speak with at least two homeowners when possible.
What if the contractor avoids written answers?
Treat that as a warning sign. Major terms should be in the contract, not left as verbal promises.
Related reading
Next step
Have a bid in hand? Analyze one quote, or compare two side by side.