How to Interview a General Contractor: An Essential Guide for Homeowners

You’re ready to start a new construction project on your home. How do you choose a General Contractor?

Hiring a general contractor is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make when planning a construction or renovation project. Whether you’re building a custom home, remodeling your kitchen, or adding an outdoor living space, the right contractor can make all the difference in the success of your project. But how do you ensure you’re choosing the best one for your needs? Start by asking the right questions.

What questions should you ask a General Contractor before you hire them?

Here’s what to ask to determine if a contractor aligns with your vision, budget, and timeline.

How long have you been in business?

Understanding the contractor’s experience level is crucial. Look for a contractor with a solid track record in your community and experience in projects similar to yours.

Can you provide references from past clients?

Speaking with previous clients gives you insight into the contractor’s reliability, quality of work, and ability to stay on budget and schedule.

What’s your process for managing projects?

A well-organized contractor should have a clear process for planning, executing, and completing projects, including how they handle permits, inspections, and communication with you. See The Dan Company’s Process Here.

Who will be my main point of contact?

Clear communication is essential, and a single point of contact is ideal. Knowing who you’ll be working with day to day means having an informed, trusted go-to person for updates, questions, and concerns.

Can you provide a detailed estimate?

A detailed, written estimate should outline the scope of work, materials, labor, and any other costs. It helps you understand what you’re paying for and reduces the risk of unexpected expenses.

How do you handle changes or unexpected issues during the project?

Construction projects often involve unforeseen challenges. A good contractor should have a plan for addressing changes and keeping you informed.

What is your payment schedule?

Understand the payment structure, including deposits, progress payments, and final payment. This helps ensure the project stays on budget and on track.

How do you ensure project quality and safety?

Ask about their quality control procedures, how they maintain safety on the job site, and expectations for subcontractors. This is especially important if you’ll be living in the home during the renovation.

Can you provide a timeline for the project?

A realistic timeline helps set expectations for how long the project will take. Ensure the contractor can meet your deadline or explain any potential delays.

Are you licensed and insured?

Ensure the contractor is properly licensed to work in your area and carries adequate insurance to protect you in case of accidents or damages.

Ready to start a Construction Project?

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Interviewing Your Contractor Matters.

Even if a contractor has been highly recommended by friends, family, or neighborhood social media sites, you should still meet 1:1 before hiring them. An interview meeting lets you gauge the contractor’s experience, communication style, and ability to manage your project effectively– as well as their overall compatibility with your own communication and working style. 

What are General Contractor Red Flags?

While interviewing a general contractor, be aware of a few red flags that could indicate future problems:

Vague or unclear answers

If the contractor is hesitant to provide specific details, seems evasive, or fails to answer your questions directly, it might be a sign of inexperience or a lack of transparency.

Lowball estimates

Be cautious of estimates that are significantly lower than others. Ultra-low estimates are almost always too good to be true; the contractor is likely cutting corners or underestimating the project to win your business.

Unwillingness to provide references

A reputable contractor should be more than willing to share references from satisfied clients.

Lack of licensing or insurance

Never hire a contractor who isn’t properly licensed or insured, as this could leave you liable for any accidents or damages.

Your project is our most important job.

When you decide to invest in a home remodel or construction project, you’re placing a great deal of trust in your contractor and building partner – and we don’t take that lightly. The Dan Company’s experienced team of carpenters, builders, and home remodelers is here to treat your project with care and craft a space that’s uniquely YOU.

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FAQs: Interviewing a General Contractor

Why is it important to interview multiple contractors?

Interviewing multiple contractors allows you to compare their experience, communication styles, pricing, and overall approach to your project. This helps you find the best fit for your specific needs and helps you be sure you’re hiring someone you can trust.

Be sure to ask about their experience, licensing, references, project management process, communication practices, and how they handle unexpected issues. It’s also important to discuss budget, timelines, and their approach to quality control.

Ask for proof of licensing and insurance, and request references from past clients. You can also check online reviews and ratings, as well as verify their standing with local trade associations or the Better Business Bureau. 

A detailed estimate should break down the costs of labor, materials, permits, and other expenses. Compare estimates from multiple contractors, but be wary of estimates that are significantly lower than others – this could be a sign of cost-cutting, hidden fees, or dishonest sales practices.

The right contractor should have experience with projects similar to yours, communicate clearly, provide a detailed estimate, and demonstrate a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Trust your instincts—if something feels off during the interview, it may be best to keep looking.

Effective communication is crucial for a successful project. Your contractor should be easy to reach, responsive to your questions and concerns, and proactive in providing updates throughout the project.

Local experience is valuable because it means the contractor is familiar with local building codes, regulations, and the permitting process. It also indicates they have established relationships with reliable subcontractors and suppliers in the area.

If you have doubts after the interview, it’s a good idea to interview additional contractors. You can also ask for more references or visit previous job sites to see the contractor’s work firsthand.

Reach out to past clients and ask about their experience with the contractor, including the quality of work, adherence to timelines, communication, and overall satisfaction. If possible, visiting completed projects can also give you a better sense of the contractor’s craftsmanship.