Hiring a tradesman is a trust exercise — you're letting someone into your home, often while you're not there, and handing them a check before the work is done. A five-minute conversation up front can prevent months of headaches.
Here are the seven questions every homeowner should ask before signing anything.
1. "Are you licensed for this type of work in my state?"
This is non-negotiable. Ask for the license number, then verify it yourself at your state licensing board's website (usually takes 60 seconds). Don't accept "I've been doing this for 20 years" as a substitute — licensing is about accountability, not just skill.
Why it matters: If an unlicensed contractor does work that causes damage or fails inspection, your homeowner's insurance may not cover it.
2. "Can you provide proof of insurance?"
You need two things: General Liability insurance and Workers' Compensation. Ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) and call the number on the certificate to confirm the policy is active.
Why it matters: Without workers' comp, if a worker is injured on your property, you could be personally liable for their medical bills.
3. "Will you pull the required permits?"
Many homeowners think permits are just bureaucracy — they're not. Permits mean a licensed inspector reviews the work and confirms it's safe and up to code. Work done without required permits can cause problems when you sell your home.
A contractor who discourages permits is a contractor who doesn't want their work inspected.
4. "How long have you been doing this type of work specifically?"
General experience matters less than trade-specific experience. A carpenter with 15 years of framing experience may have done a bathroom tile job only twice. Ask specifically about work like yours.
Follow-up: "Can I see photos of three similar recent projects?"
5. "What's the full payment schedule?"
Professional contractors never ask for full payment upfront. A standard schedule: - 10–15% deposit at contract signing - 30–40% at project midpoint or materials delivery - Balance upon satisfactory completion
If someone asks for 50%+ before work begins, walk away.
6. "What's your warranty on labor and materials?"
Most reputable tradesmen offer at least a one-year warranty on their workmanship. Materials may carry separate manufacturer warranties (e.g., shingle manufacturers typically offer 25–50 year warranties that transfer to the new owner).
Get the warranty terms in writing as part of the contract.
7. "Who will actually be doing the work — you or subcontractors?"
General contractors frequently subcontract specialty work. That's fine — but you need to know: - Are the subs licensed and insured? - Will the GC supervise them daily? - Are the subs paid directly by the GC (so you're not responsible if the GC doesn't pay them)?
Unpaid subs can put a mechanic's lien on your property, even if you already paid the GC in full.
One More Thing: Get Three Quotes
Getting multiple quotes isn't about picking the cheapest — it's about understanding the market rate and spotting red flags. A quote significantly below others usually means something is missing: materials, labor hours, or permits.
Use the WattaPro Directory to compare verified, reviewed tradesmen in your area and request quotes directly from their profiles.