25 Questions To Ask Your Contractor Before The Build Begins

Hiring a contractor to build your new home can be a daunting and stressful experience. Knowing which questions to ask can help you make the process run more smoothly, and in the end you will be able to select a qualified contractor that you feel comfortable with.

Below is a list of questions that you should ask before hiring a contractor for your new home.

(Photo: Calvin.edu) Asking potential contractors the right questions can help you stay informed and avoid construction headaches during your project

1. What do you have for insurance? (WCB (Worker’s compensation), Course of Construction Insurance, and Liability Insurance are typical, and they should carry at least the minimum amount of insurance for your area.

2. What are your qualifications and affiliations?

3. What is and isn’t covered in the contract?

4. What does and doesn’t the quote cover?

5. What things would cause the budget to run over the amount you’ve quoted?

6. Can you provide a breakdown of my quote (foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, roofing, etc)?

7. What is your billing procedure?

8. What warranties or guarantees do you offer?

9. How many other projects will you be working on at the same time as mine?

10. How many workers do you employ and what are their skill levels?

11. Who do you subcontract out to?

12. Will you be sticking with my project consistently, through completion?

13. Who will be onsite everyday to oversee my project?

14. What is the construction timeline for my project?

15. What is the completion schedule for my home?

16. What would cause the completion schedule to be set back?

17. How do you handle change orders?

18. What permits will you need, and will you be responsible for obtaining them?

19. What is your standard when it comes to construction material?

20. What level of interior and exterior finishes do you use?

21. What is your preferred method of communication?

22. How accessible are you? Can I call you in the evening or on the weekend?

23. How will you keep me informed of decisions that I need to make?

24. How will you handle any issues that may arise once the build is complete?

25. Would you like me to be available as a reference for future projects?

There are a lot of questions that you could ask a potential contractor, and while it is fun to consider the finishing touches of your home, it is important that all of your bases are covered. A great contractor will be easy to communicate with and will alleviate a large portion of the stress that some people experience with a new home build. Do your homework before you sign a contract with a builder, and you will be ready to break ground on your new home and new life.