A contractor is being hired to manage risk, sequence work and deliver a defined result. The interview should test those abilities, not merely whether the person seems friendly.
Prepare the same scope for each bidder
Provide the same drawings, appliance list, finish assumptions and requested scope. Quotes cannot be meaningfully compared when one includes disposal and permits while another excludes them.
Verify the business
- Legal business name and contact information.
- Required licences or trade credentials for the location.
- Liability insurance and workers’ compensation status where applicable.
- Recent references for similar work.
- Who will supervise the site and who performs each trade.
Ask process questions
Ask how hidden conditions, change orders, schedule updates, site protection, dust control, product delays and deficiencies are handled. A clear process is more useful than a promise that nothing will go wrong.
Read the contract before paying
The contract should identify scope, exclusions, allowances, plans, materials, payment milestones, start and completion expectations, change-order process, permits, cleanup, warranties and dispute procedures.
Ontario consumer note
Ontario provides specific consumer information for home renovation and repair contracts, including written-contract and cooling-off protections in certain circumstances. Confirm current rules for your agreement and location.