Questions to Ask a General Contractor: Complete List
Planning a home renovation or starting a new construction project is exciting, but you need to hire the right general contractor. And the best way to achieve this is by asking the right questions before you sign anything. Your project’s success hinges on choosing someone skilled, reliable, and transparent in both communication and processes. Here are some questions to ask a general contractor for peace of mind.
1. Credentials and Legitimacy
Asking the right questions about credentials can protect you legally and financially. Here are some important questions you can ask regarding your general contractor’s credentials.
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
This should be your very first question. Licensing means the contractor meets state requirements and has the proper training for your project. Bonding adds another layer of protection, covering financial losses if the contractor fails to fulfill the terms of your agreement.
Insurance (both liability and worker’s compensation) shields you from responsibility for accidents or damages that might occur on-site.
Consider it a major red flag if a contractor hesitates or can’t provide proof of licensing and insurance.
Do you have experience with projects like mine?
Not all general contractors specialize in the same type of work. Some excel at kitchen remodels, while others focus on full-home renovations or outdoor projects. Ask for examples of relevant projects they’ve completed and any challenges they overcame.
Contractors with experience similar to your scope are more likely to anticipate issues and tackle them proactively.
Can you provide references from recent clients?
A trustworthy contractor should have a strong portfolio of satisfied customers who can attest to their professionalism, punctuality, and budget adherence. If you’re able to speak with references, consider asking:
Was the project completed on time?
Were there any unexpected costs?
How was communication throughout the process?
Would you hire this contractor again?
Hearing honest feedback from past clients is invaluable in setting realistic expectations in a construction project.
2. Project Management and Team
Hiring a contractor involves more than the person you see at the initial consultation; it involves the entire crew that will execute your vision. Understanding how contractors manage their teams and workflow is crucial for a hassle-free experience.
Who will be working on my project?
It’s normal for contractors to bring in subcontractors for specialized tasks like plumbing, electrical, or drywall. Ask how they vet these subcontractors and who will be on-site each day. Also, clarify if they conduct background checks for workers, especially if you’ll be living in the home during the renovation.
Will there be a dedicated project manager?
A project manager can be your go-to person for updates, scheduling questions, and any issues that arise. If your contractor doesn’t offer one, ask how they plan to keep you informed and manage the project’s daily progress.
How many projects are you managing simultaneously?
Contractors often handle multiple jobs at once. And while that’s common, you still want assurance that your project will get ample attention. If they’re spread too thin, timelines might stretch, and quality can suffer.
Ask about their typical workload and strategies for keeping every job on track.
What is your approach to team scheduling and workflow?
A well-structured schedule keeps your project on track and prevents unnecessary delays. Ask how the contractor plans to coordinate subcontractors. Will tasks be scheduled back-to-back to maintain momentum, or will there be planned gaps between phases?
Understanding their approach helps you gauge how organized they are and whether they prioritize efficiency and meeting deadlines. Someone with a clear, logical workflow respects your time and budget.
3. Timeline
A realistic timeline lays the groundwork for a smoother renovation process. Understanding how long each phase will take and how your contractor handles unexpected challenges will help you plan accordingly and minimize last-minute surprises. Here are some questions to ask a general contractor.
What is the projected timeline for this project?
Ask your contractor for a detailed schedule that outlines each major milestone: demolition, framing, plumbing, electrical work, and final walkthrough. While unforeseen issues can happen, a well-thought-out plan gives you a clear sense of the project’s overall duration.
Tip: Inquire about factors like weather delays, material shortages, or overlapping projects that commonly affect timelines. A proactive contractor will build contingency time into the schedule.
How do you handle delays or unforeseen issues?
No renovation is immune to this! What matters is how the contractor addresses them. Do they have backup plans when materials run late, or subcontractors call in sick? Will they propose alternate solutions if something unexpected pops up?
Their problem-solving approach can spare you stress and keep the project moving.
How often will you provide project updates?
Regular communication prevents misunderstandings. Find out if you’ll get daily, weekly, or milestone-based updates, and decide on the best communication method—be it phone calls, texts, emails, or in-person meetings.
Some contractors even use project management apps, giving you a live feed of progress and scheduling.
What are the work hours and days?
Ask about the crew’s typical working hours and whether they operate on weekends or holidays. Knowing this in advance helps you coordinate your schedule and anticipate potential disruptions—particularly if you’re living on-site during the renovation.
4. Budget and Payments
Money conversations can be uncomfortable, but clarity here is essential. Misunderstandings about payments often lead to disputes, so nail down the details before any work begins.
Can you provide a detailed written estimate?
A thorough estimate spells out labor, materials, permits, and other costs. Request an itemized breakdown to see exactly where your money goes. Ask if allowances (for items like fixtures or finishes) are included, and clarify what happens if you pick options that exceed these allowances.
Additionally, compare multiple estimates. Collecting at least two or three bids helps you gauge market rates and spot inconsistencies or potential red flags.
What is the payment schedule?
Most contractors use milestone-based payment schedules, such as initial deposits and payments after certain project phases. A reasonable deposit usually ranges from 10% to 20% of the total cost.
Be cautious of contractors demanding large upfront sums, as it may indicate financial instability or a higher risk of disappearing.
How do you handle cost overruns or unexpected expenses?
Hidden damages (e.g., mold behind walls) or design changes can swell costs. Ask how they’ll notify you and get approval before proceeding. A transparent plan for managing unforeseen costs keeps you in control of your budget.
Are there any potential hidden costs I should be aware of?
Permits, debris disposal, and final cleanup sometimes aren’t clearly stated in the initial estimate. Confirm who pays for each of these. Knowing all possible fees upfront helps you set a realistic budget and dodge unwelcome surprises.
Do you offer any financing options?
Large-scale projects might exceed your immediate budget. Some contractors partner with financing companies or offer in-house financing. While this isn’t a must, it’s worth exploring options if you need greater financial flexibility.
5. Legal and Permits
A professional contractor will typically handle most of the legal side of a construction or renovation project. However, you must ensure they’re familiar with local regulations and don’t cut corners. Here are some questions to ask a general contractor.
Will you obtain the necessary permits and arrange inspections?
Major home projects often require permits for electrical, plumbing, structural changes, and more. A responsible contractor knows which permits apply and will factor them into the timeline and budget. Ask if permit fees are included in your estimate and confirm who’s in charge of scheduling any mandatory inspections.
Warning: A contractor suggesting you skip permits to “save money or time” is a big red flag. Doing so can result in fines, forced rework, or even decreased home value.
Do you follow all local building codes and regulations?
Building codes keep your home safe and up to standard. Although it may sound obvious, asking about it confirms the contractor’s familiarity with local guidelines. It also shows you’re an informed homeowner who values proper procedures.
Do you offer warranties on your work?
Warranties can vary from one contractor to another. Some provide a one-year workmanship warranty, while others may offer longer coverage on both materials and labor.
Also, inquire about manufacturer warranties for items like windows, appliances, or roofing. Knowing the extent of warranty protection can save you headaches if something fails down the line.
Will I receive a lien waiver after each payment?
A lien waiver proves you’ve paid the contractor (and any subcontractors or suppliers) for completed work. Without it, those parties could file a mechanic’s lien against your property if they remain unpaid. Asking for lien waivers is a savvy way to ensure everyone gets compensated fairly—without risking your home as collateral.
How do you handle contract changes or amendments?
Project details can evolve despite careful planning, and changes should be formally documented. Clarify how the contractor will update cost estimates, timelines, and the contract to reflect any modifications. A transparent process minimizes confusion and keeps everyone aligned.
6. Safety and Clean-Up
Construction can be messy and disruptive, which is why a good number of questions to ask a general contractor fall within safety and clean-up.
What safety protocols will you follow?
Serious hazards can arise on a job site. Ask about precautions like:
Protective barriers around the work area
Ventilation for fumes or dust
Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like goggles and hard hats
Adherence to OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) standards
Inquire if the crew holds routine safety meetings to stay updated on best practices.
How will you protect my property?
Your non-construction areas need safeguarding from dust, damage, and spills. Expect measures like:
Covering floors, furniture, and appliances with drop cloths
Setting up dust barriers or plastic sheeting
Placing protective mats to prevent scratches in entryways
Also, clarify if they’ll protect landscaping or hardscapes during materials delivery or use of heavy machinery.
How will the site be cleaned at the end of each day?
Professionals typically sweep floors, store tools securely, and clear away any hazardous debris. This courtesy makes life easier for you if you remain on-site during the project.
What is your process for post-project clean-up?
Once the work wraps up, you deserve to enjoy your new space without dealing with leftover mess. Confirm whether a thorough final clean-up is part of the contractor’s service, including debris removal and wiping down surfaces. Some contractors even provide deep-cleaning options, which can be a great perk.
How will you dispose of debris and construction waste?
Proper waste handling is both a safety and environmental concern. Will they rent a dumpster or haul debris off-site daily? Are these costs included in your estimate? If environmental friendliness is a priority, ask if they recycle materials like wood or metal.
7. Communication and Conflict Resolution
Smooth communication is the backbone of any successful renovation or construction project. Clear, consistent updates minimize confusion, keep everyone on the same page, and ensure issues are addressed swiftly rather than snowballing into major problems. Here are some more questions to ask a general contractor.
What is your preferred method of communication?
Some contractors prefer phone calls, while others use email, text, or dedicated project management apps. Discuss which method works best for you—especially if you want regular updates.
Also, find out whether you’ll talk directly with the contractor or if a project manager will handle day-to-day queries.
How do you handle questions or concerns during the project?
Even with thorough planning, unexpected questions may pop up. Will the contractor schedule regular check-ins or expect you to reach out as needed? A professional who welcomes open dialogue and values your input is more likely to deliver results aligned with your vision.
How do you handle disputes or disagreements?
In any project, disagreements can arise. Look for a contractor with a clear process for resolving disputes. This might include mediation, arbitration, or simply a commitment to discuss and rectify issues promptly before considering legal action.
What happens if I’m not satisfied with part of the work?
Ask about the contractor’s policy on corrections. Will they fix minor mistakes at no extra cost? Do they stand behind their workmanship enough to address issues that arise after completion? A contractor who’s proud of their craft should be willing to make things right if the final product isn’t up to your expectations.
Do you provide written change orders for modifications?
Project tweaks are common, such as deciding on a different tile or rerouting plumbing. All changes should be documented via a written change order that specifies the scope, cost, and effect on the timeline. This transparency keeps everyone aligned and prevents surprise bills at the end. How Protractor Can Help
Choosing the right general contractor and understanding the fine print in construction contracts can be daunting—even if you know which questions to ask. That’s where Protractor steps in.
Review Construction Contracts with Protractor
Protractor is an AI-powered construction contract review tool designed to translate complex legal jargon into clear, accessible language. We believe homeowners deserve to feel fully informed about what they’re signing without needing a legal background.
With Protractor, you can:
Review your contractor’s agreement quickly. Our AI pinpoints key points, flags potential red flags, and ensures you grasp critical clauses.
Avoid hidden pitfalls. We highlight vague or risky areas so you can discuss them with your contractor or seek revisions.
Gain peace of mind. You’ll know exactly what your responsibilities are and what to expect from your general contractor before making things official.