How to Vet a Contractor Before You Hand Over a Single Dollar
Most contractor horror stories have one thing in common: the homeowner skipped the vetting process. Here's the exact checklist that protects you.
Every contractor horror story I've ever heard — the half-finished project, the disappeared deposit, the work that failed inspection — had one thing in common: the homeowner didn't vet the contractor before signing.
Here is the exact process I'd use if I were a homeowner hiring a contractor for the first time.
Step 1: Verify License and Insurance
Every contractor doing work above a certain dollar threshold must be licensed in your state. Check your state contractor licensing board online — it takes 5 minutes and is non-negotiable.
Insurance verification: ask for a Certificate of Insurance showing general liability (minimum $1M) and workers' compensation. Call the insurance company directly to confirm the policy is active.
Step 2: Check References Properly
Don't just ask for references — ask for references from projects similar to yours completed in the last 2 years. Then actually call them and ask: "Would you hire them again without hesitation?"