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How-to· 5 min read

The seven questions to ask a contractor before you sign

Before you hand over a deposit, get answers to these seven questions in writing. It'll save you thousands.

A Renovate Vision estimate gets you a realistic budget. A good contractor conversation gets you a realistic timeline. Ask these seven questions before signing:

The list

  • Are you licensed and insured in this state? (Get certificate numbers.)
  • Who is my day-to-day point of contact?
  • What's the payment schedule tied to?
  • What's your change-order process?
  • Which subcontractors will you use?
  • What's the warranty on labor?
  • Can I see three projects in the last 18 months?

Red flags

Cash-only discounts. Deposits above 30%. No written scope. A start date "next week" for a full kitchen.

Green flags

An itemized proposal that mirrors your Renovate Vision estimate line-for-line. That's a contractor who's done this before.

Try it on your own room.

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