Questions to Ask a Contractor Before You Sign
The questions that protect your budget and timeline — about scope, permits, payment, warranties, and change orders — to ask before signing a contractor quote.
Most cost overruns are not caused by bad luck — they are caused by questions that never got asked. A few minutes of clarifying questions, answered in writing, is the cheapest insurance you can buy on a renovation.
Questions about scope
- Exactly what is included — and what is explicitly excluded?
- What specific materials, brands, and grades will you use?
- Who is responsible for demolition, haul-away, and final cleanup?
- What happens if you find a hidden problem once work starts?
Questions about permits and code
- Are building permits included in this price, or billed separately?
- Will the work be inspected, and who schedules the inspections?
- Is the work guaranteed to meet local code?
Questions about money
- What is the payment schedule, and how much is due upfront?
- How are change orders priced and approved?
- What is your rate for common surprises, like replacing rotten wood?
Questions about protection
- How long is your workmanship (labor) warranty, separate from the manufacturer warranty?
- Can you provide proof of license and current insurance?
- Will you provide a lien waiver when the job is paid in full?
Send these as a short, friendly email and keep the replies. If a contractor is reluctant to answer in writing, treat that as information too. QuoteCheck can generate a tailored question list — and a ready-to-send email — from your specific quote.
Have a quote in hand?
Get an instant AI review in about a minute.