Before you sign anything or hand over a deposit, make sure you've asked these questions. The answers will tell you everything you need to know about whether a contractor is right for your project.
The Right Questions Protect Your Home and Your Investment
Hiring a contractor is a significant decision. You're inviting people into your home, trusting them with your space, and committing real money to the project. The wrong choice can mean delays, poor quality, and even legal problems. The right choice means a smooth project and a result you're proud of for years.
These 12 questions will help you tell the difference.
1. Are You Licensed in California?
In California, any construction project over $500 in combined labor and materials requires a licensed contractor. You can verify a license at the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) website. Ask for their license number and check it yourself. Don't take their word for it.
2. Are You Insured — and What Does That Include?
You need two types of insurance: General Liability (to cover damage to your property) and Workers' Compensation (to cover workers injured on your job). Ask to see certificates of insurance, not just verbal confirmation. If a worker is injured on an uninsured job site, you could be liable.
3. Do You Have Experience With This Type of Project?
A contractor who does commercial work isn't necessarily the right choice for a residential bathroom remodel. Ask specifically about similar projects and request examples or references.
4. Can I See Examples of Similar Work?
Photos, case studies, and ideally a project you can visit or speak to the homeowners about. A quality contractor has a portfolio and is proud to share it.
5. Who Will Be Doing the Work?
Will it be their own employees, or will they subcontract parts of the project? This isn't inherently a problem — specialty trades like plumbing and electrical are often subcontracted — but you should know who will be in your home and who is ultimately responsible for quality.
6. How Do You Handle Changes During the Project?
Things come up. Hidden damage, supply delays, homeowner changes of heart. A professional contractor handles these through written change orders that document what changed, what it costs, and both parties' agreement before any extra work proceeds.
7. What Is the Payment Schedule?
A reasonable payment schedule for a typical residential remodel is: deposit upfront (typically 10–30%), progress payments tied to project milestones, and a final payment upon completion. Be very cautious of contractors who ask for 50% or more upfront.
8. Do You Handle Permits?
Legitimate, licensed contractors handle permit applications as part of the project. If a contractor suggests skipping permits to save money or time, walk away.
9. What Is the Estimated Timeline?
Get a timeline in writing, including start date and estimated completion date. Understand what factors could affect the schedule and how those will be communicated.
10. How Do You Communicate During the Project?
Will you get regular updates? How do you reach them if there's a concern? Miscommunication is one of the most common sources of contractor disputes. Establish expectations upfront.
11. What Warranties Do You Offer?
Quality workmanship should come with a warranty. California law requires a one-year workmanship warranty minimum for most projects, but reputable contractors often offer more.
12. Can I Speak With Past Clients?
References from real homeowners who have completed similar projects are invaluable. Call them, not just review them online. Ask about communication, quality, timeline, and whether they'd hire the contractor again.
Our Answers to All of These
At Anderson Contracting Solutions, we're happy to answer all of these questions directly and in detail. We're licensed, insured, and backed by three generations of family experience in the construction industry. Call us at 949-828-2155 to schedule a free consultation.
