Contractor Interview Checklist

Printable homeowner checklist before you hire any home-service professional. TrustZe is a matching broker — we introduce screened contractors; you hire and pay them directly.

Use across Dallas–Fort Worth, Austin, Denver, San Diego, Red Bank NJ, Warren/Metro Detroit MI, and other markets we serve. Verify licenses with the board that applies to your city and trade.

1. Credentials

• License number recorded and verified with the relevant state/local board
• General liability certificate reviewed (coverage amount noted)
• Workers’ compensation proof reviewed (or written exemption explanation)
• Business name on insurance matches the proposal

2. Scope understanding

• Problem restated in the contractor’s own words
• Repair vs replace options explained with tradeoffs
• Alternative approaches discussed (not only the most expensive path)
• Access, HOA, and permit constraints acknowledged

3. Written estimate details

• Materials/equipment listed with brand or allowance
• Labor scope includes removal, disposal, testing
• Permits and inspections called out (included or owner responsibility)
• Cleanup and site protection included
• Parts warranty years: ____ · Labor warranty years: ____

4. Local experience

• Recent similar jobs in your metro described
• Local conditions discussed (e.g., Dallas clay/hard water; freeze-thaw in MI)
• Who will be on site day-of (employees vs unsupervised day labor)

5. Red flags

• Pressure to decide today / “special expires tonight”
• Large cash-only deposits with no paper trail
• Verbal-only estimate
• Won’t provide license or insurance proof
• Won’t pull required permits
• Quote far below peers without a thinner scope

6. Timing & payment

• Start date and expected completion
• Daily work hours / noise expectations
• Payment schedule tied to milestones (deposit % / completion %)
• Change-order process in writing

7. Documentation

• Before / during / after photos requested
• Invoices and final warranty documents saved
• Three references requested (optional but useful)