A good contractor is hard to find... and when you do find one, their schedules may be booked for months out. As the popularity of home renovation projects skyrockets, vetting out the good ones is proving to be a particularly thorny challenge.
Selecting the right contractor can be the most important decision you make when renovating, and who better to hold those in the industry accountable for good work than John Young, Head of Contractor Network at Block Renovation.
We tapped him to get insight from a contractor's POV. After all, homeowners, project managers, and builders alike want to have the best possible experience.
Finding the Right Local Contractor
It may be tempting to select a potential contractor based on bid price alone, but there are several factors to keep in mind when comparing bids.
"The right contractor with experience in your area can advise on local code/permit requirements and may even be able to help predict unforeseen conditions from larger projects or from working in similar homes or units to yours," reminds Young.
"Licensed contractors that follow the highest quality standards and offer reliable workmanship warranties are more likely to execute a long-lasting renovation in your home, saving you money long term."
- Research. Look for a list of contractors online. Check their websites to get a better understanding of the kind of work they do.
- Check their specialty. Different contractors might have different areas of expertise. Make sure the contractor you choose has a strong history with your type of remodeling project.
- Verify licenses and certifications. Always check if they're licensed and certified by visiting your state or local municipality licensing board's website or by contacting them directly. Unlicensed contractors may not be accountable to industry standards. Go a step further by checking their permit application history. If a contractor has a long record of successfully completing projects with building permits, chances are they are very reliable.
- Ask for proof of insurance. Contractors should have both liability insurance and a workers' compensation insurance policy. Hiring an insured contractor with insurance certificates protects you in case of accidents or property damage during the course of the project. Avoid working with uninsured contractors.
- Ask for a detailed list of references. A reputable home improvement contractor will have a list of previous clients who you can contact to get an understanding of their workmanship, punctuality, professionalism, and overall satisfaction with the project. When you speak with current references, be prepared with a list of questions so you can learn more about the overall experience, the project schedule, and make sure you're hiring a reputable professional. Ask if they had any difficult issues or concerns about cheap finishes and fixtures. They may also be willing to share photos from their successful project.
- Get multiple estimates. It's best to get bid estimates from at least three different contractors to compare prices. Keep in mind that the lowest bid may not necessarily be the best. It's not always about trying to save thousands of dollars.
- Interview contractors. Live dialogue not only gives you an understanding of their approach to the work but it'll help you gauge their communication skills. Inquire about any business partners or subcontractors that will be involved with your project. Ask about requirements for the initial payment and their preferred payment schedule so that they know you're accountable, too.
- Visit job sites. Teams that are willing to show you their completed or active home improvement projects are confident in their workmanship and willing to go the extra mile to win your business.
- Look for established businesses. Professionals are likely to do high-quality work and are less likely to disappear midway through your project (this applies for whether you're building a stone wall or doing a full kitchen redesign). They'll be more familiar with local building codes and proper zoning and permit requirements so the job is done right. Look for companies that have been in business for many years, have a physical business address and a good track record.
- Use a written contract. Reputable contractors will insist on a written contract that clearly defines the scope of the project, the timeline, the types of materials to be used, waste removal plan, the project cost, and other important details. Avoid those who want to work without a contract.
- Trust your instincts. Ultimately, trust your intuition when selecting a potential contractor. If something feels off or you have doubts about their professionalism or reliability, it may be best to explore other options.
Prioritize Communication; Build Trust
Having an open line of communication goes a long way. Find a trusted partner who will help you achieve your goals. Make sure that you find a person who is communicative, will proactively share any bumps in the road, and will work with you to solve any problems. The last thing you want is finding out about a potential delay too late.
1. Be Clear About Your Goals
The 2025 U.S. Houzz Remodeling & Relationships Survey highlighted that couples want transparent pricing, clear communication, and accurate timelines.
"Clearly articulate your vision for the project, including your desired outcomes, functionality, and aesthetics," recommends Young. "Provide any sketches, images, or samples that can help convey your ideas."
Today's technology makes it easier than ever to collaborate visually and avoid design dilemmas. AI design tools like Hover, Isla Porter, Palazzo, and Planner 5D streamline home remodel ideation for both interior designers and homeowners.
2. Create a Project Brief
Defining the scope of the project prevents details from falling through the cracks. Visualization is a trend that's important for both the homeowner and the contractor. These days, visualization goes beyond a contractor's sketch and material samples.
Homeowners should provide input to guide the design—whether it be from Pinterest boards or photos of other projects they like. Doing this improves communication, reduces revisions, costs, time, and decision regret.
Hover defines the visualization trend as a tool for the "Show-and-Sell Generation," acknowledging in its 2025 Real-Time Design Report that contractors are increasingly willing to use design software to help fulfill a client's vision.
Consumer expectations of contractors are set high, too. The report highlighted that 74% of pros know that homeowners expect a design visualization.
Traditional design methods are quickly morphing to accommodate AI-powered previews, and contractors know that a good design helps instill confidence in a project, improving budgets, reducing stressors, and shortening buy-in time.
If your contractor hasn't offered a design visualization, ask why.
3. Maintain Open and Honest Communication
Establish a transparent and open line of communication. "Regularly share your thoughts, concerns, and questions to ensure everyone is on the same page throughout the project," says Young.
4. Listen to Professional Advice
You're hiring the project out for good reason. "While it's important to communicate your vision, also be open to suggestions and recommendations," reminds Young.
"They have expertise in the field and may offer valuable insights that enhance your original ideas."
What red flags should I watch for when hiring a contractor?
- No physical business address
- Hesitation to provide references
- Requests for full payment upfront
- Vague or missing contract details
- Poor communication during early conversations
- Lack of knowledge around zoning and permitting requirements
Can I negotiate with a contractor on pricing?
You can, but focus on scope of your project rather than trying to drive the cost down unrealistically.
For example, discuss material options, alternative finishes, or adjusting timelines. Don't undermine the value they add.
Contractors are more willing to work with you on changes that balance quality and cost rather than simply cutting corners.
