Contractor Checklist

I Did It My Damn Self: Contractor Checklist
đź›  Everything You Need to Ask & Know Before Hiring a Contractor

🔹 Step 1: Do Your Research
âś… Get at least 3 quotes for comparison.
âś… Check online reviews (Google, Yelp, BBB, etc.).
âś… Ask for references from past clients.
âś… Verify licenses, insurance, and certifications.
âś… Look at before & after photos of their work.

🔹 Step 2: Ask These Questions
📌 Experience & Credentials
â—Ź How long have you been in business?
â—Ź Do you specialize in this type of work?
â—Ź Can I see your past work or speak with a client?
📌 Cost & Payment
â—Ź Can you provide a detailed, itemized estimate?
â—Ź Do you require a deposit? (Never pay more than 30% upfront!)
â—Ź What is your payment schedule?
📌 Timeline & Work Process
â—Ź How long will this project take?
â—Ź Will you be working on other jobs at the same time?
â—Ź Who will be my main point of contact?

🔹 Step 3: Red Flags to Watch For 🚨
❌ Unwilling to provide a written contract.
❌ Asking for full payment upfront.
❌ No references or portfolio.
❌ Hard-selling or rushing decisions.
❌ Cash-only payments with no receipts.

🔹 Step 4: Protect Yourself
âś… Get everything in writing (contract, payment terms, scope of work, deadlines).
âś… Never pay in full before the job is done.
âś… Take before, during, and after photos of your project.
✅ Trust your gut—if something feels off, walk away.

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