How to Hire a Remodeling Contractor
The difference between a smooth remodel and a nightmare is mostly in the hiring. Vet for license and insurance, compare at least three real bids on the same scope, and tie payments to approved milestones rather than paying up front.
Vet before you talk price
- Confirm an active contractor's license in your state and current general-liability and workers'-comp insurance. Ask for the certificates.
- Look for a real track record: recent projects like yours, references you can actually call, and a physical business presence.
Compare bids on the same scope
- Give every contractor the identical scope so the bids are comparable. A suspiciously low bid usually means missing scope, not a better deal.
- Read line items, not just the total — materials allowances, labor, and what's excluded are where surprises hide.
Protect your money
- Never pay the full amount up front. Tie payments to milestones — deposit, rough-in, and completion — released only as work is approved.
- Put scope, price, schedule, and change-order terms in a written contract before anyone starts.
Get a free, ZIP-based estimate for your project — line items, not a guess.
Get my estimate →FAQ
How many bids should I get?
At least three, on the same written scope. It's the single best way to learn your real market price and spot missing scope.
How much should I pay up front?
A modest deposit is normal, but avoid paying most of the job up front. Milestone payments — released as work is approved — protect you if something goes wrong.
How do I find vetted contractors?
Post your project on Reno to get matched with pros who carry a verified license and insurance profile, then compare their bids side by side and pay by milestone.