A remodel contract is worth reading slowly, because it is the document you will rely on if anything goes wrong. The questions below are the ones that prevent the most common disputes, and they are worth asking even when you trust the contractor — especially then, because a good contractor welcomes them.
This page is a checklist, not legal advice. For a specific contract question, talk to a qualified professional before signing.
Ask before you sign
- Is the full scope itemized, including materials, finishes, and who supplies what?
- How are changes priced once work has started, and who must approve them in writing?
- What is the payment schedule, and what work is complete at each payment?
- What is the timeline, and what happens if materials are delayed?
- What does the warranty cover, for how long, and what is excluded?
- Who handles permits, if permits are needed, and who pays the fees?
- What is the cleanup and haul-away responsibility?
- Is the license current on the CSLB check, and does it cover this work?
Questions people ask
Should I get more than one quote?
Yes, for any substantial project. Multiple itemized quotes are how you learn what a fair scope looks like, not just what a fair price looks like.
What if the contractor will not answer a question?
That is information. A contractor who will not put scope, changes, or warranty in writing is telling you how the project will be managed.
License verification pending — confirm with CSLB before hiring, unless a license number is stated by the business itself. Any license number shown is stated by the business, not verified by this directory.