Before signing or paying
Questions to ask before hiring a contractor
Good questions are useful. Written answers are better. Attach the final scope and responsibilities to the agreement whenever possible.
Scope
- Exactly what labor and materials are included?
- What is specifically excluded?
- Which items are allowances, and what does each allowance cover?
- Who removes debris and completes final cleanup?
Responsibility
- Who obtains permits and schedules inspections?
- Who coordinates subcontractors and utility providers?
- What must I purchase, prepare or complete?
- Who is responsible for damage to existing property?
Price and changes
- Is the price fixed, estimated or time-and-materials?
- What deposit is required and what protects it?
- What milestone triggers each payment?
- Must I approve every change order and price in writing first?
Schedule and warranty
- What is the expected start window and duration?
- What conditions can extend the schedule?
- What workmanship warranty is provided?
- How are defects reported and how quickly are they addressed?
Make it specific
Generate questions from the actual quotes.
UtilityMath flags the missing and unclear items in each contractor’s bid, so you ask about your project—not a generic checklist.
Build my question list →This guide is educational and does not replace legal advice. Licensing, insurance, lien, notice and contract rules vary by location and project.