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

A home contractor pointing out details to a couple during a home consultation, with large sliding glass doors and a garden visible in the background

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?

A couple reviewing home renovation plans on a laptop with a contractor during a kitchen consultation, representing the process of selecting a reputable home contractor

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.
A smiling homeowner shaking hands with a contractor in a home setting, symbolizing a successful agreement when hiring a reputable home contractor
A hand signing an insurance claim form on a clipboard, representing the importance of verifying a contractor's insurance coverage before hiring

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

  1. Responds to calls/messages within 24 hours
  2. Assigns a clear point of contact
  3. Provides detailed written scope, contract, and schedule
  4. Gives written notice of extra charges/change orders and waits for approval
  5. Alerts to potential quality issues promptly
  6. Warns in advance of possible delays
  7. Resolves quality issues collaboratively
  8. Advises on materials while respecting your choices
  9. Maintains a clean, safe, and organized site
  10. Uses code-compliant, industry-standard materials
  11. Holds valid license, insurance, and bond for the full project
  12. Secures necessary permits and passes all inspections
  13. Links payment milestones to completion percentages
  14. Offers at least a one-year warranty
  15. Bases change orders on true costs; allows time to verify estimates
  16. Avoids overcommitting to multiple projects
  17. Guarantees steady crew presence during workdays
  18. Ensures workers are skilled in required trades
  19. Employs only qualified, insured subcontractors
  20. Keeps homeowner’s project a priority
Three contractors installing dark kitchen cabinets during a home renovation, illustrating the work done by a reputable home contractor

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

At minimum, liability insurance of $1M and active CNESST worker’s compensation.

You can check with the RBQ – Régie du bâtiment du Québec.

Not usually. Industry best practices suggest no more than 10–15% upfront.

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