Questions to ask a repair/rebuilding contractor

Tips from UP’s Disaster Survivor volunteers on hiring a contractor and the rebuilding process

Tips from a home builder’s trade association.

Questions to ask:

Will I get a detailed, line-item estimate and schedule?
Will I get full-time supervision? Who?
Who handles permits?
Who helps me select materials and finishes?
Do you have a contractor’s license?
Do you have a business license?
Do you have Worker’s Compensation insurance?
How much General Liability insurance do you have?
How many jobs do you do at one time?
What experience do you have with similar work?
Do you have references? (contact both business and client references)
What type of contract do you use?
Have you worked with the designer before?
Have you worked in our City/neighborhood?
Who is my emergency contact? How available are they?
Will we have weekly site meetings?
How will you protect my property?
How often do you bill us?
How do you keep track of change orders?
How often do you update the schedule?
Where will materials and tools be stored? How about toilet facilities? Phone?

The information presented in this publication is for general informational purposes and is not a substitute for legal advice. If you have a specific legal issue or problem, United Policyholders recommends that you consult with an attorney. Guidance on hiring professional help can be found in the “Find Help” section of www.uphelp.org. United Policyholders does not sell insurance or certify, endorse or warrant any of the insurance products, vendors, or professionals identified on our website.

Source: https://uphelp.org/claim-guidance-publications/questions-to-ask-a-repair-rebuilding-contractor/
Date: December 4, 2024