A home renovation is a major financial and personal investment. Choosing the right general contractor can mean the difference between a dream remodel and a multi-month construction nightmare. Ask these 5 questions during your vetting process:
1. Are you licensed, insured, and bonded locally?
Always verify their license number with your local state licensing board. A general contractor must carry general liability insurance (to cover property damage) and workers' compensation insurance (to cover injury to crews on your site).
2. What is our communication structure and schedule?
Who will be on-site daily? Will you have a dedicated project manager, or will the general contractor drop in occasionally? Request a structured communication update (e.g., weekly phone call or digital summary) to keep track of milestones.
3. What is the plan for cleanup, site protection, and trash disposal?
Renovations generate massive amounts of dust and debris. Verify that the crew will hang heavy plastic sheeting to seal off non-work areas, protect floors with builder board, and include dumpster fees in their line-item quote.
4. How are change orders structured?
In renovations, hidden problems (such as termite damage, structural decay, or illegal wiring by previous owners) are often discovered once walls are removed. Ask how these change orders are calculated, reviewed, and approved before extra work begins.
5. Can you provide a detailed, line-item bid rather than a lump sum?
A lump-sum bid ("Kitchen Remodel: $75,000") is a red flag. Insist on a line-item breakdown specifying:
- Framing and drywall labor/materials
- Plumbing rough-in and finish fixtures
- Electrical rewiring and lighting trim
- Cabinetry fabrication and install
- Countertop fabrication and material allowances