Hiring the Right Contractor

Whether you’re planning a move or just moved into a new house, you may have home improvement projects you need assistance completing. As you plan your next home renovation project, choosing the right contractor for the job is a critical first step. As experts in building and remodeling projects, contractors can manage all the necessary permits, inspections, labor, equipment, and materials to ensure your project is successful.

Get Multiple Quotes

Always get at least three quotes for any significant project. This gives you a baseline for what the work should cost and allows you to compare the scope of work each contractor is proposing. Beware of bids that are significantly lower than others — this can be a red flag for poor quality work, shortcuts, or unlicensed contractors.

Verify Licenses and Insurance

In California, contractors are required to be licensed by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Verify a contractor’s license number on the CSLB website before you hire them. Also confirm they carry both general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. If a worker is injured on your property and the contractor lacks proper insurance, you could be held liable.

Check References and Reviews

Ask for references from recent projects similar in scope to yours, and actually call those references. Check online reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. A contractor with a strong track record of satisfied customers is worth paying a little more for.

Get Everything in Writing

A detailed written contract should specify the exact scope of work, materials to be used, project timeline, payment schedule, and what happens if there are changes. Never pay the full amount upfront — a typical payment structure is one-third at signing, one-third at a midpoint milestone, and the final third upon completion.

Pull the Proper Permits

Reputable contractors pull permits for work that requires them. If a contractor suggests skipping permits to save time or money, that is a major red flag. Unpermitted work can create serious problems when you go to sell your home.