Hiring a remodeling contractor? Ask these 15 essential questions to protect your investment and ensure a successful project.
Choosing the right contractor is the most important decision in your remodeling project. Here are 15 questions every San Diego homeowner should ask.
Licensing & Insurance
1. What is your contractor's license number? Verify at cslb.ca.gov. Our license is #1101128.
2. Are you bonded and insured? Ask for certificates of insurance including general liability ($1M+ recommended) and workers' compensation.
3. Do you pull permits for this type of work? Licensed contractors should handle all necessary permits.
Experience & Expertise
4. How long have you been in business? Look for 10+ years of established presence.
5. Have you completed similar projects in San Diego? Local experience matters for permits, inspections, and material sourcing.
6. Can you provide references from recent projects? Request 3-5 references and actually call them.
Project Management
7. Who will manage my project day-to-day? You want a single point of contact.
8. Do you use subcontractors or employees? Both can work, but ensure subs are also licensed and insured.
9. What is your estimated timeline? Get milestones in writing.
Financial Protection
10. What is your payment schedule? Never pay more than 10% down. Payments should be tied to completed milestones.
11. Do you offer a warranty? Look for 1-year workmanship warranty minimum.
12. How do you handle change orders? Changes should be documented and approved before proceeding.
Communication & Process
13. How do you communicate project updates? Regular updates prevent surprises.
14. What happens if there are unexpected issues? Experienced contractors have processes for handling surprises.
15. Can I see a sample contract? Review before signing. Never sign under pressure.
Ready to discuss your project with a licensed, insured San Diego contractor? Contact One Stop Builders for a free consultation.
Ready to Start Your Project?
Contact One Stop Builders for a free consultation.
