Trusting a Contractor with your home renovation can be daunting. To help screen candidates for the job, ask the following questions about their business and your project.

• How long have you been a contractor?

          -Your contractor should have a well established history in your area;five year is a good benchmark.

• Are you licensed?

       -Depending on where you live, contractors may be legally required to be licensed. Your area's licensing board or building department can tell you what the requirements are, if any.  In the state of PA contractors are required to advertise their licensing permit numbers. 

• What insurance do you have?

       -Contractors should be able to provide you with current copies of insurance certificates, including coverage for personal liability, workers compensation, and property damage. Hiring an uninsured contractor puts you at risk of liability for injuries or damages. 

• Can you provide references?

        -Contractors should be able to provide you with references from at least three past clients. Ideally, their projects were similar to yours and were completed in the least year. 

• How do I approach projects of this size?

        -The answer will reveal a lot about how they do business.  This is the time to ask about specifics: completion dates, noise levels, when work will begin and end each day, etc.

• Will my project require a permit? 

        -Prior starting your project, contractors should obtain any necessary permits.  A contractor who asks you to obtain them may not be properly licensed or insured.

• Will subcontractors be used?

         - If so, are they licensed and insured as required?  Interview them as well; ask if the contractor pays them on time. If not, a lien could be placed on your house.

Reference: Mortgage Matters Newsletter