The Gold Star Blog

12 Questions to Ask Before Hiring Any Contractor

By Carli James · October 12, 2026

Most hiring disasters start the same way: a friendly conversation, a verbal price, and a handshake. The fix isn't suspicion — it's questions. Ask these twelve before you sign anything, and pay attention to two things: the answers themselves, and whether the contractor seems glad you asked. Real pros expect this list.

Credentials and protection

  1. Are you insured, and can I see the certificate? Current, verifiable, non-negotiable. If a worker is injured or your home is damaged, their insurance is what stands between you and the bill.
  2. Are you licensed for this work? Where their trade requires a license, they should hold it and be able to show it. (Every company in the Gold Star network is insured with documents verified, and licensed wherever their trade requires one.)
  3. Who actually does the work — your crew or subcontractors? Either can be fine; what matters is knowing, and knowing that the same insurance and standards cover everyone who shows up.

The job, in writing

  1. What exactly is included in this price? Materials, tear-out, disposal, permits, cleanup. If it's not in the scope, assume it's not included.
  2. What happens if you find hidden damage? Rot, mold, old wiring — every project has a "what if." Agree on how surprises get priced and approved before they happen.
  3. What's the timeline, and what could change it? Weather and hidden damage are honest answers. A start date they won't commit to in writing is not.
  4. What does the warranty cover, and for how long? Workmanship and materials are different warranties from different parties. Get both in writing.

Money and communication

  1. What's the payment schedule? Deposits and progress payments are normal for larger jobs. Paying the full amount up front, in cash, is not — walk away.
  2. Who is my contact during the job, and how do I reach them? One name, one number, and a realistic expectation for responses.
  3. How do you handle problems or changes? You're listening for a process, not a promise that problems won't happen.
  4. Can I see recent reviews or talk to a recent customer? Recent and specific beats old and glowing. Reviews on Google are public for a reason.
  5. What will the site look like when you leave each day? Cleanup, safety around kids and pets, and where materials and dumpsters go — small answers that reveal big professionalism.

The shortcut version

Twelve questions is thorough — and if vetting every contractor yourself feels like a second job, that's because it is one. Gold Star Referrals does the credential side before you ever talk: companies are verified for insurance (and license where required) before receiving leads, and homeowner feedback after every job helps decide who stays. You make one request and get matched instantly — free, and your information goes only to your matches. Then you only need the job-specific questions, for a company that already cleared the bar. See how matching works or browse the service categories we cover.

Questions & Answers

What is the single most important question to ask a contractor?

Whether they're insured — and to see the certificate. If a worker is hurt on your property or the work damages your home, an uninsured contractor's problem can become yours. It's the first check in our vetting, too.

Should I pay a contractor in full before work starts?

No. A deposit and progress payments tied to milestones are normal for larger jobs. Full payment up front removes your leverage and is a classic warning sign.

How do I verify a contractor's license and insurance?

Ask for the documents directly and check that names match the business and dates are current. Insurance certificates can be confirmed with the insurer listed on them. In the Gold Star network, this verification happens before a company receives its first lead.

Is it rude to ask a contractor lots of questions?

Not at all — professionals expect it and answer easily. Hesitation, vagueness, or offense at basic questions about insurance, scope, and warranty is itself an answer.

What if a contractor gives me a great price but a vague scope?

Don't sign. A low price with a vague scope is how 'extras' appear mid-job. Ask for the scope in writing — what's included, what's excluded, and how surprises are handled — before any money moves.

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Carli James writes for Gold Star Referrals.