How to Hire a Contractor You Can Trust

Whether it is a new roof, a bathroom renovation or an extension, the contractor you choose will shape how the project goes far more than any material or design decision. A good one keeps you informed, sticks to the agreement and fixes problems without drama. A poor one can leave you with delays, extra costs and work that has to be redone. Most of the difference can be spotted before you sign anything.

Define the job first

Contractors can only quote accurately on a clear brief. Before contacting anyone, write down:

• What you want done, room by room or task by task
• The materials and finishes you have in mind, or a range you are open to
• Your preferred timeline and any fixed dates, such as a move-in
• Your budget range
• Anything you are unsure about and want advice on

If the project is large or involves structural work, consider whether you need an architect, designer or engineer first. Their drawings make quotes easier to compare.

Find candidates

Personal recommendations from neighbours, friends and family are a strong starting point, especially if you can see the finished work. Other sources include local trade associations, building suppliers and online review platforms. Aim to contact at least three contractors.

Vet them before they visit

A short check before the site visit saves time.

1. Licensing and registration. Find out what licences or registrations are required for this type of work in your area, and confirm the contractor holds them using the official register where one exists.
2. Insurance. Ask for proof of liability insurance and, where relevant, workers’ compensation cover. Check that it is current.
3. Reviews and complaints. Look at a range of reviews and check for patterns. Consumer protection agencies may hold complaint records.
4. Experience with similar jobs. A brilliant kitchen fitter may not be the right choice for a loft conversion.
5. References. Ask for two or three recent clients you can contact, ideally for similar projects.

Questions to ask on the site visit

• Have you done this kind of job before, and can I see examples?
• Who will actually do the work: your own team or subcontractors?
• Who will be my main point of contact?
• How long do you expect the job to take, and when could you start?
• What permits are needed, and who will apply for them?
• How do you handle unexpected problems once work has started?
• How do you protect the rest of the house and clean up each day?
• What warranty or guarantee do you offer on your work?

Pay attention to how they answer as well as what they say. Clear, specific answers are a good sign. Vague promises and pressure to decide quickly are not.

Compare quotes properly

Ask each contractor for a written, itemised quote based on the same brief. When they arrive, compare:

• Scope. Is every quote for exactly the same work?
• Materials. Are specific products and quantities listed, or is it vague?
• Labour and timeline. How many days, and how many people?
• Exclusions. What is not included, such as waste removal, permits or making good after the work?
• Allowances. Some quotes include a placeholder amount for items you will choose later. Check these are realistic.
• Payment schedule.

The lowest quote is not automatically the best. A much cheaper quote may be leaving things out, while a much higher one may include work the others missed. Ask contractors to explain any big differences.

Get the agreement in writing

A proper written contract protects both sides. It should include:

1. A detailed description of the work and materials
2. Start and estimated completion dates
3. The total price and what it includes
4. A payment schedule tied to stages of completed work
5. How changes will be agreed and priced
6. Who obtains permits and arranges inspections
7. Warranty terms
8. How disputes will be handled
9. Clean-up and waste removal responsibilities

Payment rules to follow

• Avoid paying a large share upfront. A reasonable deposit for materials may be normal, but check local norms and rules.
• Pay in stages as work is completed and checked.
• Avoid paying in cash without receipts.
• Keep a final payment until the job is finished to your satisfaction and any snagging list is done.

Red flags

Be cautious if a contractor:

• Turns up unannounced offering a deal because they are “working nearby”
• Insists on cash only or full payment upfront
• Will not provide a written quote or contract
• Cannot show proof of insurance or licensing
• Pressures you to sign the same day
• Suggests skipping permits to save money

During the project

Keep a simple project log with dates, conversations and photos. Agree every change in writing before the work is done, including the cost. Walk through the work regularly and raise concerns early, when they are easiest to fix.

At the end, make a list of any unfinished or faulty items and agree a date for them to be completed before the final payment. Collect all warranties, manuals and certificates for your records.