How to Hire a Contractor: Complete Guide to Finding And Working with Pros [2026]

Hiring the wrong contractor is one of the most expensive mistakes a homeowner can make. 40% of homeowners report problems with contractors: from poor workmanship and abandoned projects to outright fraud costing thousands of dollars.

But here’s the good news: Most contractor disasters are preventable if you know what to look for.

This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire process of hiring a contractor, from finding qualified professionals to vetting their credentials, reading contracts, and managing the working relationship. By following these steps, you’ll protect yourself from the most common (and costly) contractor mistakes.

Quick Overview: 7 Steps to Hire a Contractor Safely

1. Define your project scope and budget
2. Find qualified contractors (3-5 candidates)
3. Verify licenses and insurance
4. Check references and past work
5. Get detailed written bids
6. Review and negotiate contracts
7. Establish communication and payment schedules

Average time to properly vet a contractor: 2-4 weeks
Average cost of hiring the wrong contractor: $5,000-$25,000 in corrections/legal fees
Success rate when following this process: 90%+ positive outcomes

Find Pre-Vetted Contractors in Your Area
Licensed, insured professionals already verified for quality

Why Hiring the Right Contractor Matters

The Cost of Getting It Wrong:

Real contractor disasters:

Case 1: The Disappearing Act

“Paid $15,000 upfront for a kitchen remodel. Contractor did 2 days of demo, then disappeared. Never answered calls. Had to hire lawyer ($3,500), then new contractor to fix his demo mistakes ($4,200). Total loss: $22,700.”

Sarah M., Portland, OR

Case 2: The Unlicensed ‘Professional’

“Hired contractor from Craigslist to add a bathroom ($18K quote). Work looked good until home inspection before sale. Unpermitted work, not to code, shower leaking into wall. Had to tear out everything and redo with licensed contractor ($28,000). Lost the sale.”

Michael T., Austin, TX

Case 3: The Low-Ball Special

“Chose lowest bid for deck ($8,500 vs $14,000 others). Used wrong lumber, improper footings, no permits. Deck failed inspection, condemned as unsafe after 8 months. Cost to rebuild correctly: $16,500.”

Jennifer L., Seattle, WA

What These Disasters Have in Common:

❌ Didn’t verify contractor license
❌ Paid large amounts upfront (>30%)
❌ Skipped permit process
❌ Choose based on price alone
❌ Didn’t check references thoroughly
❌ No written contract or vague terms

Every single one of these disasters was preventable.

Step 1: Define Your Project Before You Start

Before contacting any contractor, get crystal clear on:

A. Project Scope

Write down EXACTLY what you want done:

Bad (too vague):

“Remodel the kitchen”

Good (specific):

“Replace 18 linear feet of cabinets (stock maple, shaker style), install quartz countertops (40 sq ft), replace sink and faucet, install subway tile backsplash (15 sq ft), replace flooring with LVP (120 sq ft), update lighting with 6 recessed LEDs”

Why specificity matters:

• Contractors can give accurate bids
• Reduces scope creep
• Easier to compare bids apples-to-apples
• Protects you in contract disputes

B. Budget Range

Know your realistic budget BEFORE getting bids:

Use Kukun Cost Estimator to determine:

• What your project should cost
• Material vs. labor breakdown
• Regional cost variations
• ROI expectations

Why this matters:

• Helps identify unrealistic (too low) bids
• Prevents you from over-improving
• Gives you negotiating power
• Helps contractors recommend appropriate materials

C. Timeline Expectations

Realistic timelines for common projects:

Red flag: Contractor promises timeline 50%+ faster than industry standard (likely to cut corners)

D. Must-Haves vs. Nice-to-Haves

Prioritize your wish list:

Must-Haves (non-negotiable):

• Licensed and insured
• Permits handled
• Written contract
• Warranty on work
• References available

Nice-to-Haves (negotiable):

• Designer services
• Faster timeline
• Premium materials
• Extended warranty

Step 2: Find Qualified Contractor Candidates (3-5 Minimum)

Never hire the first contractor you find. Get 3-5 bids minimum to:

• Compare pricing
• Assess professionalism
• Identify outliers (too high or suspiciously low)
• Learn about different approaches

Where to Find Contractors:

Option 1: Pre-Vetted Contractor Networks (BEST) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Kukun Contractor Finder:

• Pre-verified licensing and insurance
• Customer reviews and ratings
• Portfolio of past work
• Specialization by project type
• No pressure, no obligation

Find Contractors in Your Area
All contractors are pre-screened for licensing, insurance, and quality

Pros:

• ✅ Already vetted (saves you time)
• ✅ Licensing verified
• ✅ Insurance confirmed
• ✅ Real customer reviews
• ✅ Portfolio available

Cons:

• May have fewer options in rural areas

Option 2: Personal Referrals ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ask friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers for recommendations.

Good questions to ask referrers:

1. “What project did they do for you and when?”
2. “Did they stay on budget and schedule?”
3. “How was communication?”
4. “Any surprises or problems?”
5. “Would you hire them again?”

Pros:

• ✅ Trusted source
• ✅ Can see actual work
• ✅ Candid feedback

Cons:

• ⚠️ Still must verify license/insurance (even if referred)
• ⚠️ Different project = different experience
• ⚠️ Personal relationship may affect honesty

Option 3: Online Platforms ⭐⭐⭐

HomeAdvisor, Angi, Thumbtack:

Pros:

• ✅ Large contractor pool
• ✅ Customer reviews
• ✅ Quick responses

Cons:

• ❌ Contractors pay for leads (may get aggressive sales pitches)
• ❌ Verification varies by platform
• ❌ Must still do your own vetting
• ❌ Phone/email shared immediately

Option 4: Trade Associations ⭐⭐⭐⭐

National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA)
National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI)

Pros:

• ✅ Professional standards required
• ✅ Continuing education
• ✅ Code of ethics

Cons:

• ⚠️ Membership doesn’t guarantee quality
• ⚠️ Still must verify license/insurance

Option 5: Local Building Supply Stores ⭐⭐⭐

Ask at Home Depot Pro Desk, Lowe’s, and local lumber yards.

Pros:

• ✅ Active contractors (not fly-by-night)
• ✅ Material suppliers know who pays bills

Cons:

• ⚠️ Informal referrals (no official vetting)

Where NOT to Find Contractors:

❌ Door-to-door solicitations (“I was working in your neighborhood…”)
❌ Craigslist (no verification, high fraud risk)
❌ Unmarked trucks (no business identity = red flag)
❌ Flyers on telephone poles (unlicensed)
❌ Facebook Marketplace (no vetting)

Exception: Established contractors MAY use these platforms, but require extra vetting.

Step 3: Verify Licenses and Insurance (NON-NEGOTIABLE)

This is where most homeowner mistakes happen. Skipping this step can cost you $10,000-$50,000.

A. Verify Contractor License

Every state requires contractors to be licensed for projects over a certain amount (typically $500-$3,000, depending on the state).

How to Verify Contractor License:

Step 1: Ask the contractor for the license number

If they hesitate or make excuses (“it’s at the office,” “it’s being renewed”), that’s a red flag.

Step 2: Verify with state licensing board

Use NASCLA (National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies):
NASCLA.org

Or search: “[Your state] contractor license verification”

What to check:

• ✓ License is active (not expired, suspended, or revoked)
• ✓ Matches contractor’s business name
• ✓ Appropriate license class for your project
• ✓ No disciplinary actions
• ✓ Bond is current (if required)

State Licensing Requirements by State:

Important: Some states don’t have statewide licensing (like Texas), but cities/counties do. ALWAYS check your local requirements.

B. Verify Insurance (ABSOLUTELY CRITICAL)

Required insurance types:

1. General Liability Insurance

What it covers:

• Property damage contractor causes
• Injuries to third parties
• Damage to your home during work

Minimum coverage: $500,000-$1,000,000

How to verify:

• Ask contractor for Certificate of Insurance (COI)
• Call insurance company directly to verify it’s current
• Ensure YOU (homeowner) are listed as “additionally insured”

Red flag: Contractor says “I’ll add you to policy” but can’t provide COI immediately

2. Workers’ Compensation Insurance

What it covers:

• Injuries to contractor’s workers on your property

Why you need it: Without workers’ comp, YOU can be liable if a worker is injured on your property. This can cost $100,000-$500,000+.

How to verify:

• Ask for Workers’ Comp certificate
• Verify with state workers’ comp board
• If contractor has <3 employees, some states don’t require it (but get written waiver)

CRITICAL: Never let ANY workers on your property without verified workers’ comp coverage.

C. What Happens If You Skip License/Insurance Verification?

Real consequences:

No License:

• Work may not pass inspection
• No permit pulled = can’t sell house without fixing
• No legal recourse if contractor disappears
• Homeowner’s insurance may not cover damage
• You pay twice (bad contractor + licensed contractor to fix)

No Insurance:

• YOU pay if contractor damages your property
• YOU pay if worker is injured (including long-term disability)
• YOU pay if neighbor’s property is damaged
• Can result in losing your home in lawsuit

Cost of skipping verification: $10,000-$500,000+

Step 4: Check References and Past Work

Verified license + insurance = contractor is legal. But are they GOOD?

How to Check References:

Ask contractor for 3-5 references from past year:

• Similar project type
• Similar budget range
• Projects completed (not in progress)

Questions to Ask References:

About Quality:

1. “How would you rate the quality of work on a scale of 1-10?”
2. “Were there any issues with workmanship?”
3. “Did anything need to be redone or fixed?”

About Professionalism: 4. “Did they show up on time consistently?” 5. “How was communication? Responsive?” 6. “Were they clean and respectful of your home?”

About Budget & Timeline: 7. “Did they stay on budget? Any surprise costs?” 8. “Did they finish on time?” 9. “How did they handle change orders?”

About Problems: 10. “Were there any problems? How were they resolved?” 11. “Did they clean up after themselves daily?” 12. “Anything you wish you’d known before hiring them?”

The Big One: 13. “Would you hire them again?” (This is the most telling question)

Red Flags When Checking References:

🚩 Contractor can’t provide references (“clients want privacy”)
🚩 All references are from 3+ years ago (what happened recently?)
🚩 References seem scripted (possibly family/friends)
🚩 Multiple references report same issues (pattern of behavior)
🚩 Can’t visit completed projects (“clients don’t want visitors”)

Check Online Reviews:

Where to look:

• Google Business Reviews
• Better Business Bureau (BBB.org)
• State licensing board (disciplinary actions)
• Yelp (use with caution, can be manipulated)
• Houzz (for design/build)

What to look for:

• ✓ Overall rating 4.0+ stars
• ✓ Minimum 10-20 reviews
• ✓ Recent reviews (within past year)
• ✓ How contractor responds to negative reviews
• ✓ Patterns in feedback (good or bad)

Red flags:

• 🚩 All 5-star reviews (suspicious)
• 🚩 All reviews same date (likely fake)
• 🚩 Generic reviews (“great work, highly recommend”)
• 🚩 Contractor argues with negative reviewers
• 🚩 Multiple reviews about same issue

Visit Past Project Sites (If Possible):

Why this matters:

• Photos can be misleading
• Quality becomes apparent in person
• Talk to homeowner without contractor present
• See long-term durability (not just fresh install)

What to look for:

• Attention to detail (trim, edges, finish quality)
• Straight lines and level surfaces
• Clean caulking/grout lines
• Doors/drawers function smoothly
• Professional-looking results

Step 5: Get Detailed Written Bids (3-5 Minimum)

Never accept verbal quotes. Always get detailed, written bids.

What a Good Bid Should Include:

1. Detailed Scope of Work

❌ Bad (vague):

“Remodel bathroom – $12,000”

✅ Good (specific):

“Remove existing fixtures and tile. Install 60″x32″ acrylic tub/shower unit (Brand X Model Y). Install 36″ vanity with quartz countertop. Install comfort-height toilet (Brand X Model Y). Install ceramic tile flooring (Brand X, 100 sq ft). Paint walls (2 coats, Benjamin Moore paint). Install chrome faucet and fixtures (Brand X). Install exhaust fan (110 CFM, Brand X).”

2. Materials Specified

Must include:

• Brand names
• Model numbers
• Quantities
• Grade/quality level
• Who provides materials (contractor or homeowner)

Why this matters: “Granite countertops” could mean $2,000 or $8,000 depending on quality. Specifics prevent bait-and-switch.

3. Labor Costs

Should specify:

• Labor hours or daily rate
• Number of workers
• Estimated completion time
• Overtime policies (if applicable)

4. Payment Schedule

Typical payment schedule:

• 10-30% upfront (deposit to secure date, order materials)
• 25-35% at 25-50% completion (framing done, rough-ins complete)
• 25-35% at 75% completion (major work done)
• 10-20% upon final completion (after your inspection, before final walkthrough)

Red flags:

• 🚩 50%+ upfront (huge red flag)
• 🚩 Payment for materials before they arrive
• 🚩 Final payment before work is complete
• 🚩 All cash payments required

5. Timeline

Must include:

• Start date
• Estimated completion date
• Major milestones
• Penalty clause for delays (optional but recommended)

6. Permits and Inspections

Should specify:

• Who obtains permits (should be contractor)
• Permit costs (included or separate)
• Inspection schedule
• Who handles failed inspections

7. Warranties

Standard warranties:

• Labor warranty: Minimum 1 year
• Materials warranty: Varies by manufacturer (2-25 years)
• Structural warranty: 5-10 years (for additions, major work)

Get in writing:

• What’s covered
• How long
• Who to contact for warranty work

8. Change Order Process

Must specify:

• How changes are documented
• How pricing changes are calculated
• Approval process
• Timeline impact

Why this matters: Prevents “while we’re at it” costs from spiraling.

9. Cleanup and Disposal

Should include:

• Daily cleanup expectations
• Final cleanup
• Debris removal and disposal
• Dumpster costs (if needed)

10. Insurance and Licensing Information

Should be attached:

• Copy of contractor license
• Certificate of Liability Insurance
• Workers’ Compensation certificate

Comparing Bids:

Create a bid comparison spreadsheet:

Analysis:

• Contractor A: Best balance of price, quality, reviews
• Contractor B: Fastest but higher cost, fewer reviews
• Contractor C: Lowest price but NOT LICENSED (eliminate immediately)

Red Flags in Bids:

🚩 Significantly lower than others (30%+ below average)
🚩 Vague scope of work (“all materials included”)
🚩 No materials specified (opens door to cheap substitutions)
🚩 Verbal quote only (nothing in writing)
🚩 Pressure to sign immediately (“price expires today”)
🚩 No permits mentioned (planning to skip permits)
🚩 Payment schedule front-loaded (50%+ upfront)
🚩 No warranty offered (won’t stand behind work)

Step 6: Review and Negotiate the Contract

Never start work without a written, signed contract. Verbal agreements are unenforceable and leave you vulnerable.

What Should Be in the Contract:

Every contract must include:

✓ Both parties’ information:

• Contractor’s business name, address, phone, license number
• Your name, address, phone
• Property address (if different)

✓ Detailed scope of work:

• Everything from the bid
• Specific materials with brands/models
• What’s included AND excluded

✓ Total cost and payment schedule:

• Total project cost
• Payment amounts and dates
• What triggers each payment

✓ Timeline:

• Start date
• Completion date
• Consequences for delays

✓ Change order process:

• How changes are requested
• How costs are adjusted
• Written approval required

✓ Warranty information:

• Labor warranty terms
• Materials warranty
• Who handles warranty claims

✓ Permits and inspections:

• Who obtains permits
• Cost of permits
• Responsibility for inspections

✓ Insurance and liability:

• Contractor maintains insurance throughout project
• Who’s responsible for damage

✓ Cleanup:

• Daily cleanup expectations
• Final cleanup
• Disposal of materials

✓ Dispute resolution:

• How disputes will be handled
• Mediation/arbitration clauses

✓ Termination clause:

• How either party can terminate
• Financial implications

✓ Signatures and dates:

• Both parties sign and date
• Keep copies for both parties

Contract Red Flags:

🚩 No written contract offered (“we can just do a handshake”)
🚩 Vague language (“approximately,” “similar,” “equivalent”)
🚩 No specific materials (“granite countertops” without brand/color)
🚩 Final payment BEFORE completion
🚩 No cancellation clause
🚩 Waives contractor’s liability
🚩 Requires binding arbitration (limits your legal options)
🚩 Mechanic’s lien waiver required before work starts

Negotiating Tips:

What you can negotiate:

• ✓ Payment schedule (never >30% upfront)
• ✓ Timeline (add buffer for delays)
• ✓ Materials (upgrade/downgrade to adjust price)
• ✓ Warranty length
• ✓ Scope (remove items to reduce cost)

What you shouldn’t negotiate:

• ✗ Permits (never skip permits)
• ✗ Insurance requirements
• ✗ License verification
• ✗ Quality of materials (below contractor’s recommendation)

Sample negotiation:

“Your bid is $22,000 but we budgeted $20,000. Can we use stock cabinets instead of semi-custom to get closer to our budget? Or extend the timeline by 2 weeks if that helps with scheduling?”

Step 7: Establish Communication and Payment Schedules

Before work starts, set clear expectations:

Communication:

Establish:

• Primary point of contact (foreman, project manager, owner?)
• Best way to reach them (text, phone, email?)
• Response time expectations (same day, 24 hours?)
• Daily check-in time
• How to handle emergencies

Schedule regular check-ins:

• Daily: Quick 5-10 minute updates
• Weekly: Detailed progress review
• As-needed: When decisions are required

Payment:

Best practices:

• Never pay cash (always check with contractor’s business name)
• Document every payment (photo of check, bank transfer record)
• Get signed receipt for each payment
• Never pay for work not yet completed
• Withhold 10-20% until FINAL completion (after your inspection)

Red flags:

• Contractor asks for cash (“to save on taxes”)
• Wants payment to personal account (not business)
• Pressures for early payment
• Won’t provide receipts

During Construction:

Your responsibilities:

• Be available for questions/decisions
• Review work regularly
• Document progress with photos
• Communicate concerns immediately
• Make payments on schedule

Contractor’s responsibilities:

• Show up on schedule
• Communicate delays immediately
• Keep worksite clean
• Respect your home
• Follow contract specifications

Red Flags During Construction

Stop work immediately if you notice:

🚩 Work doesn’t match contract (different materials, shortcuts)
🚩 No permits pulled (when required)
🚩 Workers appear unlicensed/untrained
🚩 Unsafe practices (no safety gear, dangerous conditions)
🚩 Contractor disappears (days without showing up)
🚩 Constant excuses and delays
🚩 Pressure for more money (“we found unexpected issues” every day)
🚩 Substandard work quality
🚩 Refuses to fix mistakes
🚩 Becoming hostile or defensive

If you see these red flags:

1. Document everything (photos, videos, written notes)
2. Stop making payments
3. Send written notice of concerns (email, certified mail)
4. Request meeting to address issues
5. If unresolved, consult attorney before continuing

Common Contractor Scams to Avoid

Scam #1: The Advance Fee Scam

How it works: Contractor demands 50-75% upfront for “materials,” then disappears.

How to avoid:

• Never pay more than 30% upfront
• Verify materials delivered before paying
• Use credit card for deposit (dispute protection)

Scam #2: The Low-Ball Bid

How it works: Contractor bids significantly lower to get job, then adds constant “unexpected” costs.

How to avoid:

• Get 3-5 bids (identify outliers)
• Require written change order process
• Budget 10-15% contingency

Scam #3: The Unlicensed “Professional”

How it works: Person claims to be licensed but isn’t. Does poor work, no recourse for you.

How to avoid:

• ALWAYS verify license with state board
• Check license matches business name
• Verify insurance independently

Scam #4: The Bait-and-Switch

How it works: Contractor quotes premium materials, then substitutes cheap alternatives.

How to avoid:

• Specify exact brands/models in contract
• Inspect materials before installation
• Take photos of material labels

Scam #5: The Permit Skipper

How it works: Contractor avoids permits to save time/money. Work fails inspection when you sell.

How to avoid:

• Require permits in contract
• Verify permits pulled (call city/county)
• Never let work start without permits

Scam #6: The Lien Threat

How it works: Contractor doesn’t pay subcontractors/suppliers, they file lien on YOUR property.

How to avoid:

• Require lien waivers from all subs before final payment
• Verify contractor paying bills (ask for receipts)
• Include indemnification clause in contract

What to Do If Things Go Wrong

Minor Issues:

Examples: Small mistakes, minor delays, communication gaps

Steps:

1. Document the issue (photos, written description)
2. Communicate concern to contractor immediately
3. Give contractor chance to fix
4. Follow up in writing (email)
5. If fixed satisfactorily, continue with project

Major Issues:

Examples: Contractor abandons job, serious safety concerns, refusal to fix major problems, demand for payment beyond contract

Steps:

1. Stop work immediately

• Don’t make any more payments
• Secure worksite if necessary
• Document everything

2. Send written notice

• Certified mail + email
• Detail all issues
• Reference contract clauses
• Set deadline for response (7-10 days)

3. Contact state licensing board

• File formal complaint
• Request investigation
• They may mediate or take action

4. File BBB complaint

• Public record
• May prompt response from contractor
• Helps warn other consumers

5. Consult attorney

• Bring all documentation
• Review contract
• Discuss legal options

6. Consider small claims court

• For disputes under $5,000-$10,000 (varies by state)
• No attorney needed
• Faster than full lawsuit

7. File insurance claim

• Your homeowner’s insurance (for property damage)
• Contractor’s insurance (if you have their policy info)

How to Fire a Contractor:

If you must terminate the contract:

1. Review termination clause in contract

• Follow specified process
• Meet any notice requirements

2. Document reasons for termination

• Breach of contract
• Failure to perform
• Safety concerns
• Photos and written records

3. Send termination letter

• Certified mail + email
• State reasons
• Reference contract
• Request all materials/tools be removed

4. Do NOT make final payment

• You may owe for work completed to date
• But withhold payment for defective work
• Calculate fair compensation with attorney help

5. Hire independent inspector

• Document quality of work done
• Identify what needs to be fixed
• Get written report

6. Hire new contractor

• Get bids to complete project
• Include fixing any problems
• Use this to calculate damages from original contractor

25 Essential Questions to Ask Every Contractor

Before Hiring:

Licensing & Insurance:

1. “What’s your license number, and can I verify it?”
2. “Do you carry general liability insurance? What’s the coverage amount?”
3. “Do you have workers’ compensation insurance?”
4. “Can you provide certificates of insurance?”

Experience: 5. “How long have you been in business?” 6. “How many projects like mine have you completed?” 7. “Do you specialize in [kitchen/bathroom/addition]?” 8. “Can you show me photos of similar projects?”

References: 9. “Can you provide 3-5 references from the past year?” 10. “Can I visit any completed projects?” 11. “Do you have reviews I can check online?”

Project Details: 12. “Who will be the on-site supervisor?” 13. “Will you use subcontractors? For what trades?” 14. “What’s your typical crew size?” 15. “What hours will workers be on-site?”

Permits & Inspections: 16. “What permits are required for my project?” 17. “Who obtains the permits, you or me?” 18. “Are permit costs included in your bid?” 19. “How do you handle inspections?”

Timeline & Process: 20. “What’s a realistic timeline for my project?” 21. “What could cause delays?” 22. “How do you handle unexpected issues?”

Financial: 23. “What’s your payment schedule?” 24. “How do you handle change orders?” 25. “What warranty do you provide on your work?”

State-Specific Contractor Requirements

License Requirements by State:

States with strong statewide licensing:

• California, Florida, Nevada, Arizona, Louisiana, Michigan, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington

States with limited or no statewide licensing:

• Texas (city/county level), Illinois (city/county level), Kansas, Wyoming, Vermont, New Hampshire, Indiana, Missouri

Check your state: NASCLA.org

How to Verify in Your State:

California:

• Website: CSLB.ca.gov
• License required: $500+ projects
• Search by license number or business name

Texas:

• No statewide license
• Check city/county requirements (Houston, Austin, Dallas have requirements)
• Plumbers/electricians need a state license

Florida:

• Website: MyFloridaLicense.com
• License required: All projects
• Very strict enforcement

New York:

• No statewide general contractor license
• Licensed trades only (plumbers, electricians)
• Check the local municipality

How to Work Successfully with Your Contractor

Set Clear Expectations from Day 1:

Communication:

• Agree on preferred method (text, phone, email)
• Set regular check-in times
• Establish response time expectations

Access:

• What areas of the home will contractors access?
• Where can they park?
• Bathroom access?
• Can they use your wifi? Outlets?

Noise & Hours:

• Acceptable work hours (typically 8 am – 6 pm weekdays)
• Noise concerns (if you work from home)
• Weekend work?

Pets & Children:

• Keep pets secure
• Keep children away from work areas
• Worksite safety

During the Project:

DO:

• ✓ Review work daily
• ✓ Communicate concerns immediately
• ✓ Take progress photos
• ✓ Be available for questions/decisions
• ✓ Provide feedback constructively
• ✓ Make payments on schedule
• ✓ Respect the contractor’s expertise

DON’T:

• ✗ Micromanage every detail
• ✗ Change your mind constantly
• ✗ Go directly to the workers (communicate with the supervisor)
• ✗ Make demands outside contract scope
• ✗ Withhold payment for leverage
• ✗ Allow work without proper permits

Building a Good Relationship:

Why it matters:

• Get better quality work
• More flexibility when issues arise
• Priority for future projects
• Referrals to others

How to do it:

• Be respectful and professional
• Communicate clearly and promptly
• Provide a safe, clean work environment
• Offer water/coffee (optional but appreciated)
• Pay on time
• Leave a positive review when deserved

Final Inspection Checklist

Before making the final payment, inspect:

General:

• All work matches contract specifications
• Materials are as specified (brands, models, colors)
• Workmanship is of professional quality
• No visible defects or damage
• Clean and complete (no loose ends)

Specific Items:

Cabinets/Carpentry:

• Doors open/close smoothly
• Drawers glide properly
• All hardware installed and functioning
• Surfaces smooth and finished
• Straight lines and level surfaces

Tile/Flooring:

• Straight, even grout lines
• No cracked or chipped tiles
• Properly sealed
• Level transitions
• No hollow spots (tap to check)

Plumbing:

• No leaks (check under sinks)
• All fixtures function properly
• Proper water pressure
• Drains flow smoothly
• No water stains or damage

Electrical:

• All outlets/switches work
• Proper amperage circuits
• GFCI outlets where required
• The lights function properly
• No exposed wiring

Painting:

• Even coverage, no missed spots
• Clean lines at edges
• No drips or runs
• Touch-ups complete

General:

• All debris removed
• Work area cleaned
• Surrounding areas protected/cleaned
• All your belongings returned

Create Punch List:

For any incomplete or unsatisfactory items:

1. Document with photos
2. Create a written list
3. Review with the contractor
4. Set a deadline for completion
5. Withhold final payment until complete

Typical punch list timeline: 1-2 weeks for completion

Warranty and After-Project Care

Standard Warranties:

Labor Warranty:

• Typical: 1 year
• Good: 2-5 years
• Excellent: 5-10 years

Materials Warranty:

• Varies by manufacturer
• Appliances: 1-5 years
• Flooring: 10-25 years
• Roofing: 20-30 years
• Cabinetry: Lifetime (limited)

What’s Usually Covered:

• Defects in workmanship
• Installation problems
• Structural issues

What’s Usually NOT Covered:

• Normal wear and tear
• Damage from misuse
• Acts of nature
• Previous work by others

Maintaining Your Warranty:

Keep documentation:

• Contract and all change orders
• Receipts for all payments
• Material warranty information
• Photos of completed work
• Inspection reports and permits

Follow maintenance requirements:

• Many warranties require proper maintenance
• Keep records of maintenance performed
• Follow manufacturer guidelines

Report problems promptly:

• Most warranties require notification within a reasonable time
• Document the issue with photos
• Contact the contractor in writing

Find Pre-Vetted Contractors Now

Skip the vetting process; we’ve done it for you.

Kukun Contractor Finder:

✅ All contractors pre-verified:

• License confirmed active
• Insurance certificates verified
• Background checked
• Customer reviews validated

✅ See real past work:

• Portfolio of completed projects
• Verified customer reviews
• Ratings by project type

✅ Get quotes safely:

• No pressure, no obligation
• Direct contact (no middleman)
• Compare multiple contractors
• Specialization by project type

Find Contractors in Your Area
Connect with licensed, insured professionals

Additional Resources: Contractor Verification & Protection

National Resources:

Better Business Bureau (BBB)
BBB.org

Verify:

• Business legitimacy
• Customer complaint history
• BBB rating and accreditation
• Dispute resolution records

Why this matters: BBB complaints are public record and can reveal patterns of problems.

National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA)
NASCLA.org

Connect to your state licensing board:

• Verify contractor’s license by state
• Check disciplinary actions
• Understand state requirements
• File complaints

Why this matters: State licensing boards have the authority to suspend/revoke licenses for violations.

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
ConsumerFinance.gov

Guidance on:

• Home improvement loans
• Contractor payment protections
• Lien rights and releases
• Dispute resolution

Why this matters: CFPB provides consumer protections for financing home improvements.

Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Consumer.FTC.gov

Guidance on:

• Home improvement contracts
• Avoiding contractor fraud
• Your rights as a consumer
• How to file complaints

Why this matters: FTC can take action against fraudulent contractors engaging in interstate commerce.

State-Specific Resources:

Check your state’s Attorney General website for:

• Consumer protection division
• Contractor fraud information
• How to file complaints
• Consumer rights

Written by Billy Guteng. January 5, 2026

Billy is a content writer for Kukun. He was born in France, and has lived in multiple cities around the world ever since. He loves art, design and architecture as well as construction and real estate.

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