What to Expect When Hiring a Contractor

Why Should I Hire a General Contractor?

You might be wondering—why hire a general contractor when you could DIY it with a little help from HGTV and YouTube? The answer is simple: a general contractor brings industry knowledge and expertise that go far beyond what you can learn from a video. That expertise isn’t just gained overnight—it comes from years of hands-on experience and a rigorous licensing process.

There are many steps a general contractor must take to obtain a contractor’s license, including proof of on-the-job experience, a detailed application, and a background check. The final step is to pass the Law and Business exam and the Trade exam which test the knowledge of California contracting law, business management, and trade-specific skills. These requirements ensure that licensed contractors have the necessary experience and legal knowledge to manage projects safely and effectively.

What to Expect from a Reputable Contractor

• Regular and clear communication– A reputable contractor will always provide you with a clear timeline, expectations, and updates throughout the process—before, during, and after your project. While unexpected costs can arise, a professional contractor should provide an estimate and communicate any changes promptly.
• A detailed contract– Your contract should outline the scope of work, timeline, and payment terms.
• Proper licensing and insurance– Always vet a contractor’s experience and references. Review their licensing and insurance to ensure they are current and have no claims against them.
• Project management and coordination– Your contractor is expected to handle all permits, inspections, material orders, and subcontractors to keep the project on schedule. They will also manage your project’s costs and schedule to ensure it comes in on time and within budget.
• Quality work and industry knowledge– A reputable contractor will always follow all local building codes and best practices.

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Red Flags to Watch For

• Lack of a written contract
• Unwillingness to provide references
• Demanding large upfront payments
• No proof of insurance or licensing
• Poor communication or vague estimates

When Comparing Bids

It’s always a great idea for a homeowner to obtain multiple bids on a project, but it’s just as important to know how to compare them effectively.
A common mistake homeowners make is assuming the lowest bid is the best option. It could be considered a red flag if an estimate is significantly lower than the others. You might end up paying more in the long run if your project is run inefficiently or if you end up paying a different contractor to fix things.

Next, you should make sure the bids include all expected costs, including materials, labor, project management/administrative costs, and all necessary permitting. A contractor may appear more affordable at first, but if they’ve left out key costs—like permits or project management costs—you could end up paying more through unexpected change orders.
Lastly, if a bid includes allowances (commonly used for materials, such as plumbing or electrical fixtures), check that the amounts are realistic. Otherwise, this could lead to unexpected costs later.

Making the Right Choice for Your Project

Hiring a general contractor isn’t just about getting the job done—it’s about ensuring it’s done right, safely, and efficiently. Taking the extra time to vet your contractor and understand the process upfront can save you stress, money, and frustration down the road.