The 7 Questions to Ask Every Contractor Before You Hire Them
N
NeedReno Staff
June 20, 2026
7 min read
64 views
Choosing the right contractor is more than checking reviews. These seven questions reveal experience, professionalism, and whether they are right for your specific project.
Checking reviews and comparing prices is table stakes. Here are the seven questions that separate great contractors from average ones:
**1. Are you licensed and insured for this specific type of work?**
Licensing requirements vary by province and trade. A general contractor licence doesn't cover electrical or gas work — those require separate trade certifications. Ask to see the certificate, not just their word for it. And verify that their liability insurance and WSIB coverage are current.
**2. Who will be on site every day?**
The person you meet at the quote may not be the person running the project. Ask who the site supervisor will be and whether they'll be present daily. High turnover of workers on site is a red flag.
**3. Can I speak with three recent clients?**
Reviews are helpful but curated. Speaking directly with past clients lets you ask: Did they finish on time? Were there surprises in the final cost? Would you hire them again?
**4. How many active projects are you running at the same time?**
Contractors who are spread too thin jump between job sites and cause delays. Ask how many projects they'll be running concurrently with yours, and what percentage of their crew will be dedicated to your project.
**5. What happens if there are unforeseen issues?**
Hidden rot, outdated wiring, asbestos — surprises happen. A good contractor has a clear change-order process: written notice to the homeowner, signed approval before any additional work begins. If they're vague on this, be wary.
**6. Who pulls the permits?**
The contractor should pull permits in their name for any structural, electrical, or plumbing work. If they suggest pulling them in your name "to save money," walk away — that shifts the liability to you if something goes wrong.
**7. What does your cleanup process look like?**
A contractor who protects your furniture, lays down floor protection, and cleans up at the end of each day is one who respects your home. Ask specifically, and look at the state of their other active job sites if you can.
**1. Are you licensed and insured for this specific type of work?**
Licensing requirements vary by province and trade. A general contractor licence doesn't cover electrical or gas work — those require separate trade certifications. Ask to see the certificate, not just their word for it. And verify that their liability insurance and WSIB coverage are current.
**2. Who will be on site every day?**
The person you meet at the quote may not be the person running the project. Ask who the site supervisor will be and whether they'll be present daily. High turnover of workers on site is a red flag.
**3. Can I speak with three recent clients?**
Reviews are helpful but curated. Speaking directly with past clients lets you ask: Did they finish on time? Were there surprises in the final cost? Would you hire them again?
**4. How many active projects are you running at the same time?**
Contractors who are spread too thin jump between job sites and cause delays. Ask how many projects they'll be running concurrently with yours, and what percentage of their crew will be dedicated to your project.
**5. What happens if there are unforeseen issues?**
Hidden rot, outdated wiring, asbestos — surprises happen. A good contractor has a clear change-order process: written notice to the homeowner, signed approval before any additional work begins. If they're vague on this, be wary.
**6. Who pulls the permits?**
The contractor should pull permits in their name for any structural, electrical, or plumbing work. If they suggest pulling them in your name "to save money," walk away — that shifts the liability to you if something goes wrong.
**7. What does your cleanup process look like?**
A contractor who protects your furniture, lays down floor protection, and cleans up at the end of each day is one who respects your home. Ask specifically, and look at the state of their other active job sites if you can.