50 Questions to Ask a Contractor Before Hiring
The questions you ask before signing a contract determine whether your remodeling project goes smoothly or becomes a nightmare. This checklist covers everything California homeowners need to verify - from licensing and insurance to payment schedules and red flag detection.
Licensing & Insurance
These questions verify the contractor is legally allowed to do the work and that you're protected if something goes wrong.
“What is your CSLB license number?”
California law requires any contractor working on projects over $500 to be licensed. Their license number should be on every document they give you. Verify it using our free License Checker.
“What license classification do you hold?”
A Class B (General Building) is needed for most remodels. Specialty work needs the right C-class license (C-10 Electrical, C-36 Plumbing, etc.).
“Do you have current general liability insurance?”
GL insurance protects you if the contractor damages your property. Ask for a certificate of insurance - don't take their word for it.
“Do you carry workers compensation insurance?”
If a worker is injured on your property and the contractor doesn't have workers comp, you could be liable. California law requires WC for all employees.
“Can you provide a certificate of insurance?”
Any legitimate contractor will have no problem providing this. Call the insurance company to verify it's current.
“Are your subcontractors also licensed and insured?”
If a sub does bad work or gets injured, you need to know they're covered. Ask for license numbers for all subs working on your project.
Experience & References
Understand who you're working with and what past clients experienced.
“How long have you been in business?”
Longevity isn't everything, but contractors who've been operating for 5+ years have demonstrated stability. Check their license issue date with CSLB.
“Have you done this type of project before?”
A roofer isn't a kitchen remodeler. Ask specifically about projects similar to yours in scope and budget.
“Can you provide 3 references from recent projects?”
Recent is key - references from 5 years ago don't reflect their current quality. Call them. Ask about communication, timeline, and final quality.
“Can I see a current or recently completed project?”
Photos are good, but seeing work in person is better. A confident contractor will welcome this.
“Who will be the on-site project manager?”
On large projects, the person who sold you may not be the one managing the work. Know who your daily contact will be.
“Will you be using subcontractors? Which trades?”
Most GCs sub out specialty work (electrical, plumbing, HVAC). Know who's actually doing the work in your home.
Scope, Materials & Timeline
Pin down exactly what you're getting, what materials they'll use, and when it'll be done.
“Is this estimate detailed or an allowance-based bid?”
Allowance-based bids ('$5,000 for tile') can lead to surprise costs when you pick actual materials. Detailed line-item bids are always better.
“What specific materials and brands are included?”
'Granite countertops' isn't specific enough. You need the brand, grade, and color - 'Level 3 Cambria Brittanicca' is what a good estimate says.
“What happens if you find hidden damage (water, mold, structural)?”
This happens in most remodels. A good contractor will explain their change order process and give you an honest assessment of what they might find.
“What is your realistic timeline for this project?”
Emphasis on realistic. A contractor who promises 4 weeks for a kitchen remodel is either lying or inexperienced. 8-12 weeks is honest.
“What could cause delays?”
Permit approvals, material lead times, weather, inspections. A good contractor anticipates these and builds buffer into the schedule.
“Will you handle all permits?”
The contractor should pull permits in their name and license number. If they suggest you pull owner-builder permits, find someone else.
“What's your plan for dust and debris containment?”
Especially important if you're living in the home during construction. Zip walls, floor protection, and daily cleanup should be standard.
“What are your work hours?”
Typical: 7 AM - 4 PM, Monday-Friday. Some cities have noise ordinances. Establish this upfront so there are no surprises.
Payment & Contract
Protect your money. California has specific laws about deposits and payment schedules.
“What is your payment schedule?”
Payments should be tied to completed milestones, never upfront percentages. California limits deposits to $1,000 or 10% of the contract, whichever is less.
“How much deposit do you require?”
If they ask for more than $1,000 or 10%, they're violating California law (B&P Code 7159.5). Use our Deposit Calculator to check.
“What forms of payment do you accept?”
Never pay cash without receipts. Check, credit card, or bank transfer gives you a paper trail. Avoid Venmo/Zelle for large amounts.
“Will you provide lien waivers with each payment?”
A lien waiver proves the contractor (and their subs) were paid. Without one, a sub could file a lien on your house - even if you paid the GC.
“How do you handle change orders?”
Get the process in writing: what triggers a change order, how it's priced, and who approves it. No verbal change orders.
“What warranty do you provide on workmanship?”
Industry standard is 1-2 years. Some offer 5+. Get it in writing. A 90-day warranty is below standard.
“What's your dispute resolution process?”
Mediation before litigation saves time and money for both parties. This should be in the contract.
Red Flag Detection
These questions help you identify contractors who may not be trustworthy.
“Can I see your CSLB license card?”
If they hesitate, that's a red flag. Every licensed contractor has a pocket license card issued by the CSLB.
“Have you ever had a CSLB complaint filed against you?”
Honest contractors will disclose this. You can verify on the CSLB website. One complaint isn't disqualifying; how they handled it matters.
“Will you put everything in writing before we start?”
California law requires a written contract for projects over $500. If they resist writing things down, they're not someone you want to work with.
“Do you have a physical business address?”
PO boxes only are a yellow flag. A physical office or shop suggests an established operation.
“Why is your price significantly lower/higher than other bids?”
There's always a reason. Low bids often mean missing scope. High bids should come with clear justification - better materials, more included work, or stronger warranty.
“What happens if the project goes over budget?”
A responsible contractor explains their contingency process. 'We'll figure it out' isn't an answer.
“When can you start?”
Good contractors are booked 2-6 weeks out. 'We can start Monday' from a GC either means they have no work (why?) or they're overcommitting.
Use our free CSLB License Checker to verify any contractor's license in seconds.
Use our Deposit Calculator to verify the deposit amount is legal under California law.
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