How to Select a Reputable Home Contractor
When hiring a contractor for renovations, repairs, or new construction, due diligence is essential. The goal is to confirm their experience, credentials, reputation, and reliability before you sign.
Ivan Mose
Founder and CEO, Certified
Master Inspector
Key Questions to Ask
Experience – How many projects have you completed in the last 10 years in this area? Can you provide a project list?
References – Who can verify your quality, honesty, and reliability? May I speak to them directly?
Certifications & Proof – Can you show proof of licensing and insurance?
Specialization – Have you worked on projects similar to mine in style, size, and budget?
Management & Communication – Who will be my primary contact and how often will I receive updates?
Verification Steps
- Confirm their license such as “RBQ in Quebec“ with the contractor’s board; check for complaints.
- Verify insurance coverage: at least $1M liability + active worker’s compensation.
- Review online ratings such as Trustpilot and Google reviews.
- Call multiple references, asking about timelines, workmanship, and issue resolution.
- Conduct a background check and, if possible, review financial stability.
Red Flags
- Door-to-door solicitation or high-pressure sales
- Large upfront deposits (more than 10–15%)
- Offers to manipulate insurance claims (illegal)
- Push to sign immediately without review time
20-Point ‘Code of Conduct’ Contractor Checklist
- Responds to calls/messages within 24 hours
- Assigns a clear point of contact
- Provides detailed written scope, contract, and schedule
- Gives written notice of extra charges/change orders and waits for approval
- Alerts to potential quality issues promptly
- Warns in advance of possible delays
- Resolves quality issues collaboratively
- Advises on materials while respecting your choices
- Maintains a clean, safe, and organized site
- Uses code-compliant, industry-standard materials
- Holds valid license, insurance, and bond for the full project
- Secures necessary permits and passes all inspections
- Links payment milestones to completion percentages
- Offers at least a one-year warranty
- Bases change orders on true costs; allows time to verify estimates
- Avoids overcommitting to multiple projects
- Guarantees steady crew presence during workdays
- Ensures workers are skilled in required trades
- Employs only qualified, insured subcontractors
- Keeps homeowner’s project a priority
