About the work itself
These get at whether your job is routine for them or a stretch.
- Have you done this exact kind of job recently, and where? A good answer is specific and local, with addresses or towns you can check.
- Who will actually be on site, your crew or subcontractors? Either can be fine, but you want a straight answer.
- What usually goes wrong on a job like this, and how do you handle it? Honest contractors have a ready answer. Vague reassurance is a worse sign than a frank warning.
About permits and inspections
These separate contractors who work by the book from those who cut corners.
- Will you pull the permit? The answer should be yes, without hesitation.
- Which inspections does this job need, and who schedules them? They should know without looking it up.
- Have you worked with our building department before? Local experience means a smoother inspection process.
About scope, price, and timeline
These prevent the disputes that ruin otherwise good projects.
- What exactly is included, and what is not? Get the exclusions in writing, since that is where surprises hide.
- What is the payment schedule? Be cautious of large up-front deposits; payment should track progress.
- What is the realistic timeline, and what could push it? A contractor who promises no delays is not being straight with you.
About proof
End on the things you can verify after the conversation.
- Can you share your license number and proof of insurance? Then check them.
- Can you give two or three recent customers with jobs like mine? Then call them.
You do not have to take answers on faith. License lookups, insurance certificates, and public permit records all let you confirm what you were told before you sign anything.