Contractor checklist

Work through this before you sign or pay anything. Your ticks are saved in this browser only.

License and insurance

• Look up the license number on your state licensing board's website (not the contractor's own site).
• Confirm the license covers this type of work and is active.
• Ask for a certificate of liability insurance sent directly from the insurer.
• Ask whether workers are covered by workers' compensation.

Track record

• Ask for two or three references from jobs in the last year, and call them.
• Search the business name with "complaint" and "lawsuit".
• Confirm a physical business address and a phone number that's answered.

The written quote

• Every item of work is listed, with materials named by brand or product line.
• Allowances have a maximum, and "as needed" items have a unit price.
• Exclusions are written down.
• The quote says who pulls the permit and schedules inspections.

Money and paperwork

• The deposit is modest and later payments are tied to finished stages.
• Change orders must be in writing and signed before extra work starts.
• Ask for lien waivers from the contractor and major suppliers with each payment, where your state uses them.
• You have the workmanship warranty in writing, separate from the manufacturer's warranty.
• Start date, expected finish date and daily work hours are written down.

Licensing rules differ by state and trade, and some states don't license every trade. This list is general guidance, not legal advice.