What Questions Should I Ask a General Contractor Before Hiring?

Posted on 2026-01-31 01:03:32

Homeowners preparing for a renovation or construction project often search for a general contractor near me and quickly realize that choosing the right contractor is just as important as the design or budget. Asking the right questions before hiring can help prevent delays, cost overruns, and misunderstandings once construction begins.

In San Jose, CA, where building codes, permits, inspections, and trade coordination are tightly regulated, asking detailed questions upfront helps homeowners understand how a general contractor operates and whether they are a good fit for the project.

Why Asking the Right Questions Matters

Many construction problems don’t come from poor workmanship alone — they stem from unclear expectations, miscommunication, and assumptions made before work starts. Homeowners who take the time to ask clear, practical questions are more likely to experience smoother timelines and fewer surprises.

A general contracting company should be able to explain its process clearly, outline responsibilities, and describe how challenges are handled when they arise.

Question 1: Are You Licensed and Insured?

This is one of the most important questions to ask. Licensing confirms that a contractor meets state requirements, while insurance protects homeowners from liability if accidents or property damage occur.

In https://penzu.com/p/37a4821aac444c56 California, licensing requirements are strict, and homeowners should verify credentials independently. According to the Better Business Bureau, disputes and unfinished projects are far more common when homeowners hire unlicensed or uninsured contractors.

Question 2: What Type of Projects Do You Handle Most Often?

Not all contractors specialize in the same type of work. Some focus on kitchens and bathrooms, while others handle additions or whole-home renovations. Asking about recent, similar projects helps homeowners gauge whether the contractor’s experience aligns with their needs.

Local experience is especially valuable in San Jose, where familiarity with inspection timelines and permit requirements can significantly affect project schedules.

Question 3: Who Will Manage the Project Day to Day?

Homeowners should understand who their primary point of contact will be once construction begins. In some cases, the person providing the estimate is not the person overseeing daily work.

Knowing who manages scheduling, communicates with subcontractors, and handles inspections helps set expectations and avoids confusion later.

Question 4: How Do You Handle Permits and Inspections?

Permits and inspections are a major part of many remodeling projects. Homeowners should ask whether the contractor handles permit applications, schedules inspections, and manages corrections if issues arise.

Misunderstandings around permits are a common cause of delays and disputes. A general contractor should be able to explain which permits are required and how the inspection process works.

Question 5: How Is the Project Schedule Created and Managed?

Construction schedules involve more than just start and end dates. They require careful sequencing of trades, material deliveries, and inspections.

Homeowners should ask how schedules are created, how delays are handled, and what happens if a subcontractor is unavailable. Strong scheduling practices are often the difference between a smooth project and months of disruption.

Question 6: How Are Changes and Unexpected Issues Handled?

Even well-planned projects can change once demolition begins. Hidden plumbing issues, outdated wiring, or structural problems are common in older homes.

Asking how changes are documented, priced, and approved helps homeowners understand how unexpected issues will affect the timeline and budget.

Sidebar Example: Why These Questions Matter in Practice

Imagine a homeowner who doesn’t ask how changes are handled. Midway through a bathroom remodel, water damage is discovered behind the walls. Without a clear change-order process, the homeowner and contractor disagree on cost and responsibility, leading to delays and frustration.

When expectations are discussed upfront, these situations are easier to manage and resolve.

Question 7: Can You Provide References or Examples of Recent Work?

Reputable contractors should be able to share examples of completed projects or provide references. Speaking with past clients offers insight into communication style, scheduling reliability, and problem-solving approach.

Industry platforms such as Angi consistently recommend reviewing past work and references as part of the hiring process.

Question 8: What Is Included — and Not Included — in the Estimate?

Homeowners should ask for clarity on what the estimate covers. This includes materials, labor, cleanup, permit coordination, and warranty details.

Understanding exclusions is just as important. Clear scope definitions help prevent disputes once work begins.

Question 9: How Will Communication Work During the Project?

Construction projects involve ongoing decisions and updates. Homeowners should ask how often they will receive updates and how questions should be handled.

Clear communication reduces stress and helps keep expectations aligned throughout the project.

Using These Questions to Make a Confident Decision

Asking thoughtful questions helps homeowners compare contractors beyond price alone. It reveals how organized, transparent, and experienced a contractor truly is.

Many homeowners choose to speak with a general contractor before committing to ensure expectations are aligned and responsibilities are clearly defined.