Questions to ask a contractor

What can I do to keep this from happening again?

Most plumbers will answer generously: what not to put down a drain, what water pressure to hold, when to replace a braided supply hose. It is free advice with a direct effect on the next bill.

From: Questions to Ask a Plumber in an Interview

Can I have that in writing, itemised for labour and materials?

The split matters, because a single lump sum makes it impossible to tell whether a later increase is time or parts. Reluctance to itemise is a reasonable point to walk away.

From: Questions to Ask a Handyman

Who pulls the permits, which inspections are required, and when are they scheduled?

Missed inspections mean opened walls and lost weeks. Ask which inspection each phase cannot proceed past, and whether any approval is still pending on the day work starts.

From: Questions to Ask at a Pre-Construction Meeting

Which rebates or tax credits does this equipment qualify for, and who files the paperwork?

Eligibility usually depends on the exact model and on installation details, and some utility rebates must be submitted by the contractor. Offers open and close from year to year and differ by region, so check the current terms yourself and get the qualifying model number in writing before you sign.

From: HVAC Questions to Ask

How big will these plants be in five years, and what gets crowded out?

New beds are usually planted too densely because sparse beds do not sell. Mature dimensions tell you whether you are buying a design or a pruning obligation.

From: Questions to Ask a Landscaper

What happens to my money if you stop work or go out of business?

This is the question that separates careful builders from the rest. Ask about the bond, about lien waivers from every subcontractor and supplier before each payment, and about joint checks for materials. Unpaid suppliers can place a lien on your home even after you have paid the builder in full.

From: Questions to Ask a Pool Builder