3 Things to Ask Your General Contractor Before Starting a Project

3 Things to Ask Your General Contractor Before Starting a Project

Okay, you’ve decided to renovate and the next step is hiring a contractor.  I always recommend finding a contractor via referral.  Ask your neighbors, your friends, and even online referrals/reviews can be helpful.  Once you land on a contractor you think might be “the one,” here’s what I recommend are the 3 things to ask your general contractor before starting a project

 

licensed-and-insured-contractor

 

3 Things to Ask Your General Contractor Before Starting a Project

QUESTION 1

Are you licensed and insured?  This might seem a little formal, but this is the first thing you need to ask.  Also, you need to clarify that their license is current in the city you’re doing work in.  This is also a great time to discuss how they will handle the permitting process.

 

process-for-communicating-progress

 

QUESTION 2

What’s their process for communicating progress?  Go into this question knowing that you want them to lay out a clear plan, including daily meetings and email updates.  If they don’t have a quick and clear answer to this question – THAT’S A RED FLAG!

 

handle-change-orders

 

QUESTION 3

How do you handle change orders?  And this is an important one, you guys!  No matter how decisive you think you are, you will make changes as the project moves forward.  Having a conversation EARLY in the process, to understand how these changes will be approached, is very important.

30 comments

  • To ensure a successful renovation project, remember three key points when hiring a general contractor:

    Verify their current license and insurance for your area. Discuss their communication plan for progress updates. Understand their approach to handling change orders.

    James

    on January 31, 2024

  • I thought you made a good point when you explained that it is important to find a concrete contractor that is licensed and insured. In addition to that, it seems like it would be a good idea to find a concrete contractor that specializes in the type of work you are in need of. For example, if you need concrete work done for your business, you would probably want to find a commercial contractor.

    Thomas Clarence

    on January 31, 2024

  • So, my best friend has this awesome vision for her dream house, and she’s on the hunt for a custom builder who can turn her dream into reality. She’s all about those unique details and personalized touches, and she wants a home that’s truly one-of-a-kind. I’m glad you mentioned that no matter how certain you believe you are, you will change as the project progresses, thus it is crucial to have a talk EARLY to establish how any changes will be handled.

    Lily Bridgers

    on January 31, 2024

  • Finally, after years of planning and saving, my parents are choosing a concrete construction company to assist them in opening their Asian restaurant in the community. We appreciate you informing us that, despite your belief in your own decisiveness, modifications will be made as the project progresses since this is vital to all of us. It’s critical to have a talk EARLY on in the process to understand how these changes will be implemented, as you said.

    Taylor Abrams

    on January 31, 2024

  • Asking the right questions before starting a project is crucial for its success. Besides inquiring about the contractor’s experience and licenses, it’s essential to discuss their approach to sustainable building practices. Finding a contractor who values eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions can not only benefit the environment but also lead to long-term cost savings for the homeowner.

    Alumlight

    on January 31, 2024

  • This summer, my sister wants to renovate her home by adding another room to expand her kitchen space. I liked what you explained about checking the communication skills of a contractor before hiring one. I’ll share this with my sister to show her how to identify a contractor who’s transparent and answers quickly.

    Eli Richardson

    on January 31, 2024

  • Great post. Keep posting such kind of info on your page. Am really impressed by your blog.

    Joseph

    on January 31, 2024

  • Thank you for sharing these important questions to ask a general contractor before starting a project. It’s crucial to ensure they are licensed, insured, and their license is current in the relevant area. Clear communication is vital, so asking about their process for progress updates is a smart move. Understanding how change orders are handled early on can help avoid complications later. Your blog provides valuable guidance for homeowners embarking on a construction project.

    Mike Jeffirs

    on January 31, 2024

  • Your article on the three most important things to ask a general contractor before beginning a job is very useful. The significance of doing one’s homework and checking one’s references before hiring a contractor is emphasized. Homeowners may use these questions as a helpful guide to get all the information they need to make educated decisions and begin a productive working relationship. I appreciate you letting me in on your secrets.

    Central Plateau Home Solutions

    on January 31, 2024

  • I found this blog post on Jasmine Roth’s website extremely useful! The three questions to ask your general contractor before starting a project are definitely important considerations. It’s crucial to have a clear understanding of their experience, credentials, and communication style. By asking these questions, you can ensure a smoother construction process and avoid any potential issues down the line. Thank you for sharing these valuable insights!

    Dunedin builders

    on January 31, 2024

  • Before starting a construction project, it’s important to have clear communication with the general contractor, and this article by Jasmine Roth highlights three essential questions to ask. The emphasis on open and honest communication, expectations, and project timeline sets the stage for a successful collaboration. Jasmine Roth consistently offers valuable insights and advice on design-build projects. Thank you for sharing these important questions to ask before embarking on a construction project!

    Wyse Construction

    on January 31, 2024

  • The thing that stuck out to me the most is when you suggested checking if the contractor that you are interested in is licensed in the city where you will be doing the work in. My aunt and uncle will find this tip helpful because they are planning to renovate their apartment in the north next month. They want to only deal with a commercial general contractor that is qualified and has the right credentials to provide quality work, so I will ask them to consider your tips.

    Shammy Peterson

    on January 31, 2024

  • Great questions! Asking your general contractor about their experience, project timeline, and communication approach sets the foundation for a successful project. It’s important to establish clear expectations and maintain open lines of communication. Good luck with your project!

    Nicholas

    on January 31, 2024

  • My employer and I are looking for a residential restoration contractor to build a concrete barrier next to our company’s site, but until we read these useful tips on your website, we couldn’t discover one. The advice to inquire about a contractor’s license and insurance is excellent since it guarantees that, in the event that something goes wrong during the project, the company will be able to handle any subsequent financial loss. This seems like some great advice, and we’ll keep it in mind when we hunt for a general contractor. Thanks.

    Taylor Abrams

    on January 31, 2024

  • Thank you for pointing out how important it is to inquire about the contractor’s communication strategy. I’m hoping I may get a business contractor to assist me in constructing a warehouse for my small business. I’ll have to get in touch with a good construction company this week since I need a very precise layout.

    Taylor Abrams

    on October 15, 2023

  • Thanks for mentioning that it’s crucial to ask the contractor about their communication process. I’m hoping that I can hire a commercial contractor to help me build a warehouse for my small business. I need a very specific layout, so I’ll have to contact a professional this week.

    Eve Mitchell

    on April 24, 2023

  • My employer and I are looking for a contractor to build a concrete barrier close to our company’s site, but until we read these helpful tips on your website, we weren’t able to find one. The advice to inquire about a contractor’s license and insurance is excellent because it guarantees that, if something goes wrong during the project, the company will be able to handle any resulting financial loss. This seems like some great advice, and we’ll keep it in mind as we look for a general contractor. Thanks.

    Elle Jones

    on March 20, 2023

  • It’s beneficial that you mentioned how crucial it is to inquire about the contractor’s license and insurance upfront because doing so will make it clear whether they are qualified to complete the work. I imagine it would be beneficial to have an industrial general contractor explain things to you and manage the project if construction was required for your industrial plant. In the future, if I ever need to hire an industrial general contractor, I’ll keep this in mind.

    Elle Jones

    on March 20, 2023

  • Thanks for talking about the change orders thing. I agree that certain changes will be made as the project moves forward. Especially with my creative boss. I’m sure there are times when she would spontaneously want to add something somewhere as her shop is being built.

    Elaina D'Agostino

    on March 20, 2023

  • I’ve been looking for a contractor to take care of the gutters at my house, but before I got here, I was unable to locate one. It’s great that you suggested checking the potential general contractor’s insurance and license status to ensure that, in the event of a problem, the business may cover the loss. I’ll bear this excellent advice in mind as I look for a general contractor. Thanks.

    Elle Jones

    on March 20, 2023

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