6 Tips and Tricks for Finding the Right Contractor

*Updated October 21st, 2025

Taking on a home improvement project—whether it’s a small renovation or a full-scale remodel—is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. One of the biggest challenges? Finding a contractor you can trust. With so many options, how do you find the right pro and hire a contractor who’s reliable, experienced, and a good fit for your goals?

A great contractor does more than swing a hammer. The right general contractor (GC) coordinates subcontractors, pulls the right permit, manages payments and lien releases, works with architects, sources materials and fixtures, and guides you through each phase of the project. Choosing poorly can mean delays, surprise costs, or property damage, so taking time to vet your potential contractor is essential.

Before you commit, here are smart questions to ask:

• How long have you been in business, and do you have credentials for this work?

• Do you have experience with this specific renovation project/scope of the project?

• Are you licensed and insured? (Ask for a certificate of insurance and verify insurance coverage with their insurance company/insurance agent.)

• Can you provide references and customer reviews or Better Business Bureau standing?

• What’s the estimated timeline and bid/payment schedule?

Below are 10 tips for hiring a contractor so you can select the right contractor/right GC with confidence.

1) Shop Around & Get Multiple Estimates

Start with local contractors. Get multiple estimates (at least three) and compare not just price but work quality, materials, schedule, and communication. Remember: the best contractor isn’t always the lowest bid.

2) Interview for Fit & Communication

Your working relationship matters. During calls or walk-throughs, note how the contractor communicates and answer your questions. Discuss how the GC will handle surprises, a tight timeline, and change orders. If the contractor doesn’t respond clearly now, it won’t improve after work begins.

3) Verify Licensing, Insurance & Lien Protections

Always make sure the contractor is properly licensed in your jurisdiction and insured (general liability and workers’ comp). Confirm that the contractor carries coverage and provides a certificate of insurance listing you as additionally insured. Ask how they’ll protect you from liens by unpaid subcontractors or suppliers (e.g., sworn statements and lien waivers each draw).

4) Check References, Job Site & Reviews

Call recent clients about workmanship, punctuality, cleanliness of the job site, and how change orders were handled. Read customer reviews and the Better Business Bureau profile. Drive by a current site if possible to see real-time work quality and safety practices.

5) Align on Scope, Materials & Building Codes

Walk through the scope of the project in detail: drawings, specs, brands, each fixture, and allowances. Confirm the GC is familiar with building codes/building codes in your area and will pull every required permit. A contractor to ensure code compliance reduces risk with inspections and homeowners insurance later.

6) Define the Payment Schedule (Don’t Pay Too Much Upfront)

Structure payments around milestones (demo complete, rough-in passed, finishes delivered). Don’t pay large advances; keep a meaningful retainage until substantial completion and lien waivers are in hand. Tie each draw to documented progress to protect against a contractor fails scenario.

7) Set a Realistic Timeline & Contingencies

Agree on start date, critical path items, and lead-times. The timeline should include permit windows, inspection buffers, and delivery risks. Ask the GC how they’ll handle delays with subcontractors or supply shortages, and what happens if the contractor might need a change order to stay on code.

8) Put Everything in a Comprehensive Contract

Before signing a contract, insist on a detailed, comprehensive contract that spells out scope, brands, finishes, permit responsibility, payment schedule, change order process, warranty on labor/materials, site protection, and cleanup. Include a right to cancel clause per local law (where applicable) and procedures to cancel the contract without penalty under defined conditions.

9) Know Your Consumer Rights & Insurance Touchpoints

Confirm how your homeowners insurance treats home renovation/major renovation work and whether the contractor provides any additional insurance coverage. If unsure, inquire with your insurance agent. Understand your rights if contractors aren’t performing: document issues, reference the contract, and consider having a lawyer review disputes if needed.

10) Plan for Aftercare: Punch List & Warranty

Before final payment, complete a thorough punch list walk-through with your GC/contractor. Ensure all inspections are closed, subcontractors are paid, and manuals/warranties are delivered. Keep a contact path for warranty items on workmanship after handoff.

Red Flags to Watch For

• Cash-only demands or pressure deposits

• Refusal to show license/insurance

• No written contract or vague scope

• Unwilling to pull permits or follow building codes

• Can’t provide references or customer reviews

FAQs

What is a qualified contractor?
A qualified contractor/general contractor has verifiable experience, is licensed and insured, follows local building codes, manages subcontractors, and offers a clear contract, schedule, and warranty—delivering quality work with peace of mind.

How do I know if a contractor is a scammer?
Common signs: no license/insurance, requests for large cash advances, no references, no written agreement, or evasive communication. If it feels off, keep interviewing contractors and get more bids.

What should you not say to a contractor?
Avoid: “I’m not in a hurry,” “You’re the only bidder,” or “Pick whatever materials.” These can undermine your negotiating position, budget, and control over outcomes.

Final Thoughts

Finding a contractor doesn’t have to be stressful. Use these 10 tips to identify the right one—a GC who’s transparent, organized, and communicative. With the right prep, you’ll find the right general contractor and enjoy a smoother home renovation project from kickoff to closeout. Ready to need to hire? Shortlist three local contractors, compare, and choose the right GC for your home.

Additional Home Improvement Resources

• The ROI of Common Home Improvement Projects
• How to Stage a House for Sale Successfully
• Gutter Maintenance by Climate