7 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Contractor
Hiring the right contractor can make the difference between a smooth, successful project and months of frustration. Whether you're planning a new deck, patio, fence, or a complete backyard renovation, asking the right questions before signing a contract can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
The best contractors welcome questions. In fact, they expect them. Here are seven questions every homeowner should ask before hiring a contractor.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
This should always be your first question.
A licensed contractor has met state requirements and operates as a legitimate business. Insurance protects both you and the contractor if an accident or property damage occurs during the project.
Ask for proof of:
Contractor license
General liability insurance
Workers' compensation insurance (if applicable)
Never assume a contractor has proper coverage simply because they advertise online.
2. Have You Completed Similar Projects?
Experience matters.
A contractor who specializes in kitchens may not be the best choice for building a custom paver patio or composite deck.
Ask to see examples of projects that closely match yours.
Look for:
Before-and-after photos
Similar project sizes
Comparable materials
Design quality
Attention to detail
The more experience a contractor has with your type of project, the more confidently they can anticipate challenges before they become problems.
3. What Is Included in the Estimate?
Not every estimate covers the same scope of work.
A lower price isn't always a better value if important items have been left out.
A detailed estimate should clearly outline:
Materials
Labor
Site preparation
Cleanup
Permits (if applicable)
Estimated project timeline
Payment schedule
The clearer the proposal, the fewer surprises you'll encounter later.
4. Who Will Be Managing My Project?
Large companies often have separate sales representatives, project managers, and installation crews.
Before work begins, understand who your primary point of contact will be throughout the project.
It's helpful to know:
Who oversees the work each day
Who answers project questions
How updates will be communicated
Who handles unexpected changes
Strong communication is often what separates a good experience from a frustrating one.
5. What Materials Do You Recommend—and Why?
There are usually multiple ways to complete the same project.
For example, if you're installing a patio, your contractor may recommend:
Concrete pavers
Natural stone
Stamped concrete
Each option has different advantages in terms of appearance, maintenance, durability, and cost.
A knowledgeable contractor should explain the pros and cons of each material instead of simply recommending the most expensive option.
6. What Happens If the Project Changes?
Unexpected conditions can arise during almost any construction project.
Examples include:
Hidden drainage issues
Underground utility conflicts
Poor soil conditions
Material availability changes
Weather delays
Ask how change orders are handled before work begins.
A professional contractor should explain:
How changes are documented
When additional costs require approval
How schedule adjustments are communicated
Clear expectations help avoid misunderstandings.
7. Can You Provide References or Reviews?
One of the best indicators of future performance is past customer experience.
Ask for recent references or read online reviews.
Pay attention to comments about:
Communication
Reliability
Workmanship
Cleanliness
Problem resolution
Overall customer satisfaction
Consistent positive feedback is often a stronger indicator than the lowest bid.
Red Flags to Watch For
Asking good questions is important, but recognizing warning signs is equally valuable.
Be cautious if a contractor:
Pressures you to make an immediate decision
Cannot provide proof of licensing or insurance
Offers only a verbal estimate
Requests a very large payment before work begins
Avoids answering detailed questions
Has little or no portfolio of completed work
Choosing a contractor based solely on price can often become the most expensive decision in the long run.
Why Communication Matters
Construction projects involve hundreds of decisions, both large and small.
The best contractors don't just build well—they communicate well.
You should feel confident that your contractor listens to your goals, explains your options, and keeps you informed throughout the project.
That level of communication builds trust long before the first shovel enters the ground.
The Bottom Line
Hiring a contractor is about more than comparing prices. It's about finding a professional who is experienced, transparent, and committed to delivering quality work.
Taking the time to ask these seven questions can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your project starts with clear expectations.
At SBG (Slayton Builder's Group), we believe informed homeowners make better decisions. That's why we take the time to answer questions, provide detailed proposals, and communicate clearly from the initial consultation through project completion.
If you're planning an outdoor improvement project, contact SBG to schedule a consultation and discover what it's like to work with a contractor who values craftsmanship, communication, and lasting results.
