How to Screen Your Contractor Before Hiring

/September 9, 2026/inBlog, Construction, Whole Home Remodel

Key Takeaways

  • Verify Credentials: Check that the contractor holds an active license in good standing (such as via the California State License Board) and ask for references, referrals, and past jobsites to confirm their track record.
  • Confirm Insurance and Bonding: Ensure the professional carries proper general liability insurance, a bond, and workers’ compensation to protect your property and guard against injury liabilities.
  • Evaluate Business Credibility: Look into how long the business has been operating, whether they have a physical business address, and if they maintain an established presence in the community.
  • Clarify Subcontractors: Ask upfront whether subcontractors will be used on the project to ensure you remain fully protected from potential liability and property liens.

Screening your contractor before hiring is necessary, because you’re buying a service and that the quality of this service will affect your finish product. Making sure you’re selecting the right contractor to execute your remodel will not only impact the success of your renovation, but also your overall experience.

Though it might seem overwhelming, Here’s the things to research before taking the plunge and signing contracts:

1. Look at the credentials

Does your contractor carry an active license? 

If you are unsure, searching for a contractor’s license is very easy on the California State License Board’s website. 

All you need is:

  • a business name
  • license number 
  • salesperson’s name 

The search result will tell you if their license is in good standing, how long they’ve been in business and whether they’ve got any complaints.

Don’t be afraid to ask your contractor for references or referrals. They are good

indicators that the company has a good reputation and has done quality work.

Visiting past and active jobsites can also help solidify your trust in the contractor,

which will be crucial when your remodel begins. If a contractor has done great work

in the past, it’s very likely that they’ll do so in the future.

2. Do they carry the right insurances?

Your contractor should be bonded and insured. Make sure they have general liability

insurance, a bond and workers’ compensation insurance. 

Your contractor’s insurance will protect you from liability if an injury occurs at your property.

3. Search their business credibility

  1. How long have they been in business? 
  2. Do they have a business address? 
  3. Are they an established presence in the community? 

These simple questions will help you determine if your contractor has the expertise required for your remodel.

4. Ask about subs

It is important to know if subcontractors will be used on your project. Because

subcontractors work directly with contractors, not with the homeowner, you must

make sure you are protected from potential liability and liens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Screening ensures you buy quality service that directly impacts your finished product, protects your investment, and guarantees a smoother overall renovation experience.

You typically need their business name, license number, or salesperson’s name to look up their status, history, and any past complaints.

A reliable contractor should carry general liability insurance, a surety bond, and workers’ compensation insurance.

Because subcontractors work directly for the main contractor rather than the homeowner, clarifying their involvement helps safeguard you against unexpected liabilities and legal liens.