How to Vet and Hire the Right Contractor (Without the Stress)

Hiring a contractor is one of the biggest decisions a homeowner can make. Whether it’s a kitchen upgrade or a full renovation, your contractor’s reliability, skill, and communication style can make or break your experience. At Abodio, we’ve seen the best and worst of home projects. That’s why we created this smart guide (and checklist) to help you avoid common pitfalls and hire with confidence.

1. Do Your Homework

Start with referrals from friends or neighbors, but don’t stop there. Check Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Look for proof of insurance, licenses, a professional website, and photos of past work.

2. Specify Exactly What You Want

Understanding precisely what you want from your project is crucial. Write down your goals, priorities, and non-negotiables. Be as detailed as possible. This helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures you and your contractor are on the same page.

Discuss everything from timelines to specific materials, and don't hesitate to share your vision through pictures or sketches. Research the cost and availability of labor and materials in your area. Understand your options if the project needs some “value engineering.”

2 Ask Smart Questions

Don't shy away from tough questions:

How many projects are you currently working on? (Will you be managing multiple projects simultaneously?)

When do you anticipate starting my project?

Will you do all the work yourself, or will you have subcontractors? (Do your subcontractors carry insurance?)

Will you manage all permits and inspections?

May I speak directly with 2–3 past clients via Zoom or phone?

Who will be my point of contact throughout the project?

How will my family and pets be impacted by the work? 

Inquire about their experience with similar projects and their approach to unforeseen issues. Understanding their process for handling unexpected challenges can provide insight into their problem-solving skills and adaptability.

When evaluating their responses, consider more than just the content of their answers. Assess their demeanor and professionalism. Are they organized? Respectful? Or are they dodging tough questions, texts, phone calls, or showing up late?

3. Review Proposals Line-by-Line

When reviewing proposals, scrutinize every detail. Look beyond the total price to understand the breakdown of labor, materials, and other expenses. This will help you identify any discrepancies or areas where you might need clarification and allow you to compare different contractors effectively.

Ask about their change order process and payment schedules. Never pay the full amount upfront. A reasonable deposit is 10–20%, with scheduled payments tied to project milestones.

4. Always Have a Contract

A good contract spells out the full scope of work, timeline, payment schedule, and warranty terms. It protects you both and helps avoid “mission creep.”

5. Trust Your Gut

Red flags like poor communication, condescending behavior, or disorganization often appear early. Trust your instincts, and don’t settle for someone just because they’re available quickly or offering the lowest bid. Reputable contractors are unlikely to build upon a previous one’s poor work and will probably want to restart the project to ensure quality. 

✅ Download: The Contractor Interview Checklist

Our free one-pager includes everything you need to ask, compare, and confidently hire the right pro for your next project. Keep it handy for every contractor conversation.