Choosing the Right Contractor: 7 Questions to Ask Before You Sign
Hiring a contractor for your home remodel is one of the biggest decisions you'll make as a homeowner. Get it right, and your project runs smoothly with beautiful results. Get it wrong, and you're looking at delays, budget overruns, and stress. The difference often comes down to asking the right questions upfront.
At AD's Construction, we've been remodeling Denver homes for years. We've seen homeowners get burned by contractors who cut corners or disappeared mid-project. That's why we want to share the questions you should ask before signing any contract.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
This is non-negotiable. Ask for proof of a current Colorado contractor's license and liability insurance. A legitimate contractor will provide these documents without hesitation. Licensed contractors have met state requirements and are held to professional standards. Insurance protects you if someone gets injured on your property or if damage occurs.
2. Can You Provide References?
Don't just ask for references—actually contact them. Ask previous clients about the quality of work, whether the project stayed on budget and schedule, and how the contractor handled problems. If a contractor is reluctant to provide references, that's a red flag. Good work speaks for itself.
3. What's Your Timeline and How Do You Handle Delays?
Get a detailed timeline in writing. Ask how long the project should take, when work starts and finishes each day, and what happens if delays occur. Weather, material shortages, or unexpected structural issues can delay projects—this is normal in Denver. A good contractor plans for this and communicates clearly about it. Ask specifically: what causes delays are their responsibility versus yours, and how are they handled?
4. Is Everything in Writing?
Your contract should detail the scope of work, materials being used, timeline, total cost, and payment schedule. It should also include what happens if changes are requested and how those are priced. Don't rely on verbal promises. If it's not in the contract, it doesn't exist. A written agreement protects both you and the contractor.
5. How Do You Handle Change Orders?
Remodels often uncover surprises—hidden damage, code requirements, or requests for modifications. Ask how the contractor handles changes to the original scope. Will they provide written estimates for changes before proceeding? How quickly can they get you answers? This prevents surprise bills and keeps communication clear.
6. What's Your Payment Schedule?
Never pay the full amount upfront. A typical schedule might be a deposit (usually 10-30%), progress payments as work is completed, and a final payment upon completion. Understand exactly when payments are due and what triggers each payment. Avoid contractors who demand large upfront payments.
7. What's Your Warranty and How Do You Handle Problems?
Ask what warranty they provide on their work. How long does it last? What's covered? What happens if something doesn't work right after the project is complete? A contractor who stands behind their work should be willing to address issues promptly. Get the warranty terms in writing.
One More Thing: Trust Your Gut
Beyond these questions, pay attention to how the contractor communicates and treats you. Do they listen to your concerns? Do they explain things clearly? Are they professional and respectful? You'll be working with this person in your home for weeks or months. You want someone reliable and easy to work with.
Choosing the right contractor takes time, but it's worth the effort. At AD's Construction, we're proud to have earned the trust of Denver homeowners through honest communication, quality work, and standing behind what we build. If you're ready to start your remodel, we'd like to help. Request a free estimate today—no obligation. We'll answer all your questions and show you why our clients keep recommending us to their friends and family.