1. Is the company licensed and insured?

Yes, ensuring that a company is licensed and insured is crucial. Licensing confirms that the company is qualified to perform specific work, while insurance protects both the homeowner and the company from potential damages or injuries during the project. Always verify that the company’s licenses and insurance are up-to-date.

2. How long has the company been in business?

Knowing the company’s experience is important. Check how many similar projects they have completed in the past five years. This information will give you a sense of their expertise and professionalism in handling your specific project.

3. What percentage of their business is repeat or referral business?

A high percentage of repeat or referral business indicates satisfied customers. It shows that previous clients are willing to come back for more projects or recommend the company to others, reflecting the quality and reliability of their work.

4. Can they provide recent referrals?

Yes, a reputable company should be able to provide a list of recent clients who can vouch for their work. Ideally, these referrals should be for projects similar to the one you are considering.

5. Who is responsible for designing the space?

Understand who will design your space. Is it an in-house designer or an external one? Will you have access to a portfolio of designs? Ensure the cost of the design is included in the budget and that you will receive professional consultation on material selections and color palettes.

6. How is the contract written?

Contracts can vary. For large projects, a fixed-price contract is usually preferable. Ensure the contract includes detailed plans, construction start and end dates, and a clear payment schedule.

7. Are finishing materials and final scope of work specified in the contract, or are allowances used up front?

Check if the contract specifies exact materials or uses allowances, which can lead to additional costs and delays. Finalize selections early to avoid these issues.

8. Who will participate in the construction?

Clarify who will perform the work. Understand if the company uses in-house staff or sub-contractors and their relationship with these sub-contractors. Ensure background checks and drug testing are conducted for safety and security.

9. How is the construction supervised?

Know if there will be a dedicated project manager supervising the construction. Regular meetings with the project manager can help ensure the project stays on track and any issues are addressed promptly.

10. What is the warranty for the work?

Understand the warranty terms for the work done. Know the duration of the warranty and the process for making a claim, as well as your responsibilities to maintain the warranty.