Choosing the Right Contractor — 10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring

Why the Right Contractor Makes All the Difference

A home remodel is a major investment—not just financially, but emotionally. The contractor you choose will determine whether your project runs smoothly or turns into a costly, stressful ordeal. That’s why selecting a licensed, experienced, and transparent professional is one of the most important decisions you'll make.

At Ediss Construction, we’ve worked with hundreds of South Florida homeowners who started their projects unsure of where to begin. We always recommend starting with the right questions.

Here are the 10 essential questions to ask any remodeling contractor before signing a contract.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured in Florida?

Florida requires general contractors to be licensed by the state. Make sure the contractor has an active license and carries both general liability and workers’ compensation insurance.

Why It Matters: A licensed contractor meets state requirements and offers protection if something goes wrong on the job site.

2. Can You Provide References or a Portfolio of Recent Work?

A reputable contractor should have no issue providing past client references or a gallery of completed projects.

Why It Matters: Seeing past work and hearing from previous clients helps you gauge quality, professionalism, and client satisfaction.

3. Who Will Be Onsite Each Day?

Clarify whether the contractor has in-house crews or subs out the work. Also ask who will manage the job daily.

Why It Matters: A clear point of contact ensures communication stays smooth and your project stays on track.

4. What Is the Project Timeline?

Ask for a start date and an estimated timeline from design through completion. Understand how delays will be handled.

Why It Matters: Clear scheduling helps with your planning and keeps the contractor accountable.

5. Do You Handle Permits and Inspections?

In South Florida, most remodels require permits and city inspections. Confirm that the contractor will handle this process.

Why It Matters: Cutting corners on permits can lead to fines or failed inspections that delay your project.

6. What’s Included in the Estimate?

Make sure the estimate covers labor, materials, fixtures, demolition, disposal, permits, and finish work. Watch out for vague or overly brief proposals.

Why It Matters: A detailed estimate helps you avoid surprise costs and budget overruns later.

7. How Do You Handle Change Orders or Unexpected Costs?

No matter how thorough the plan, surprises can happen. Ask how they’ll be communicated and approved.

Why It Matters: Understanding the change order process protects your budget and ensures transparency.

8. What Warranties Do You Offer?

Reputable contractors offer warranties on workmanship and may help you register manufacturer warranties for products and materials.

Why It Matters: A strong warranty gives you peace of mind and shows the contractor stands behind their work.

9. Do You Offer a Written Contract?

Never start a remodel without a written agreement that outlines scope, payment schedule, responsibilities, and timelines.

Why It Matters: A formal contract protects both you and the contractor in the event of misunderstandings.

10. What Sets Your Company Apart?

This open-ended question gives insight into the contractor’s values, communication style, and pride in their work.

Why It Matters: You're not just hiring a builder—you’re choosing a long-term partner for your home.

Bonus Tips: Red Flags to Watch For

• Vague or missing estimates
  
  
• Unwillingness to pull permits
  
  
• Poor communication or evasive answers
  
  
• High-pressure sales tactics
  
  
• Extremely low bids
  
  

If any of these pop up, it’s time to move on.

Why Homeowners Choose Ediss Construction

We believe the client-contractor relationship should be built on trust, transparency, and communication. With over 15 years of experience in the South Florida remodeling industry, we handle every step—from consultation and permitting to project management and cleanup—with integrity and professionalism.

When you work with Ediss, you’ll never have to guess what’s happening or worry about the fine print.

Let’s Start Your Project the Right Way

Ready to renovate? We’re happy to answer your questions, provide references, and offer a detailed consultation before you ever sign a contract.

Call Ediss Construction at (305) 904-1936
Or request a free consultation online

Ediss Construction — South Florida’s Trusted Remodeling Experts.