10 Essential Questions to Ask Before Signing a Contract with a Tradesperson

Hiring a tradesperson for your home project is a significant decision that can impact your property's value and your peace of mind. Before signing any contract, it's crucial to ask the right questions to ensure you're hiring a qualified professional who will deliver quality work. This guide outlines ten essential questions that will help you evaluate potential contractors and protect your investment.

1. Are You Licensed, Insured, and Bonded?

This is the most fundamental question to ask any tradesperson. A proper license indicates that the contractor has met the required competency standards in their field. Insurance protects you from liability if accidents occur on your property, and bonding provides additional protection against project abandonment or property damage.

Being "bonded" means the contractor has a surety bond. If they fail to fulfill contractual obligations, you can claim financial compensation.

Work That Requires a License in Canada:

• • Electrical Work: Mandatory licensing due to safety risks.
• • Plumbing: Required for water, drainage, and gas-related projects.
• • HVAC Systems: Installation and repair require licensed professionals.
• • Gas Fitting: Highly regulated and strictly licensed.
• • Structural Changes: Major renovations typically require licensed general contractors.

What to Ask:

Be specific with your questions:

• • "Can you provide your license number so I can verify it?"
• • "What types of insurance do you carry and what are the coverage limits?"
• • "Are you bonded, and what protection does that provide me?"

2. Can You Provide References from Similar Projects?

Experienced contractors should readily provide references from past clients, particularly those with projects similar to yours. This gives you insight into their work quality, reliability, and professionalism.

Following Up with References

When contacting references, ask about:

• • Work quality and attention to detail
• • Adherence to timeline and budget
• • Communication style and responsiveness
• • How they handled any issues that arose

3. What Is Your Project Timeline?

Understanding the expected timeline for your project helps set realistic expectations and allows you to plan accordingly. A professional contractor should provide a detailed schedule that outlines major milestones.

Timeline Details to Request

Ask for specifics about:

• • Projected start and completion dates
• • Key milestone dates during the project
• • Factors that might cause delays (weather, material availability, etc.)
• • How delays are communicated and managed

4. How Will Payments Be Structured?

A clear payment schedule protects both you and the contractor. Be wary of contractors who demand large upfront payments before any work begins.

Payment Schedule Red Flags

Typical payment structures involve a deposit (usually 10-30% of the total cost) followed by installments tied to project milestones. Final payment should only be made after you've inspected and approved the completed work.

5. What Permits Will Be Required?

Many home improvement projects require permits from local authorities. Professional contractors should handle the permitting process and include these costs in their quote.

Permit Responsibilities

Ask who will be responsible for obtaining permits, scheduling inspections, and ensuring compliance with local building codes. Working without required permits can lead to fines and complications when selling your home.

6. How Will Changes to the Project Be Handled?

Projects rarely proceed exactly as planned. Understanding how changes will be communicated, approved, and priced helps prevent misunderstandings and budget surprises.

Change Order Process

A reputable contractor will have a formal change order process that documents any modifications to the original scope, along with associated costs and timeline impacts. All changes should be approved in writing before work proceeds.

7. Who Will Be Working on My Project?

Understanding who will actually be performing the work is important. Some contractors may bid on a job but then subcontract the actual work to others.

Subcontractor Information

If subcontractors will be used, ask:

• • Are they licensed and insured?
• • How long has the contractor worked with them?
• • Who will supervise their work?
• • Who is your main point of contact for questions or concerns?

8. What Warranties Do You Offer?

Reputable tradespeople stand behind their work with warranties. Understanding what is covered, for how long, and under what conditions helps protect your investment.

Warranty Details

Distinguish between manufacturer warranties on materials and the contractor's warranty on workmanship. Get all warranty information in writing, including what is excluded and how to make a claim.

9. How Will You Protect My Property?

Construction and renovation work can be messy and potentially damaging to other parts of your home. Professional contractors take precautions to protect your property.

Protection Measures

Ask about:

• • Dust control measures
• • Protection for floors, furniture, and belongings
• • Security of your home during the project
• • Daily cleanup procedures

10. What Happens If I'm Not Satisfied with the Work?

Even with the best contractors, issues can arise. Understanding the process for addressing concerns or disputes provides peace of mind.

Conflict Resolution

Discuss how disagreements will be handled and what recourse you have if work doesn't meet expectations. The contract should include a clear process for addressing and resolving any issues that may arise.

Taking the time to ask these questions before signing a contract helps establish clear expectations and builds a foundation for a successful working relationship with your tradesperson. Don't be afraid to ask for clarification or additional information—a professional contractor will appreciate your thoroughness and commitment to a successful project.