The hiring decision happens before the contract, and the contract starts with a conversation. Most homeowners ask for a bid, accept the lowest number, and sign. That's how projects go sideways. The contractors who do the best work earn it by answering every one of these questions without hesitation. Use this list before you commit to anyone for a renovation, addition, or new build in Austin.
Are You - or Your Subs - Licensed for This Work?
Texas specialty trades require TDLR licensingElectrical, plumbing, and HVAC work in Texas requires licensing through TDLR. Ask your GC which licensed trades will be on your project and who holds those licenses. A contractor who can name each license and provide the number on request is a contractor who has nothing to hide.
? Source: Texas Department of Licensing and RegulationCan You Give Me a Certificate of Insurance Today?
GL + workers' comp - before anyone startsNot next week. Today. A contractor carrying proper general liability and workers' compensation coverage can produce a COI within hours of being asked. Request that you be listed as an additional insured. Any hesitation on this question is your answer.
Source: Diamond B ConstructionWho Is Managing This Job On-Site Every Day?
Know the name before you signAsk by name. Is it you, or a project manager, or whoever happens to show up? Owner-operated contractors answer this with their own name - because their reputation is on every job they run. A vague answer here usually means an absentee GC who's hard to reach when it matters most.
Source: Diamond B ConstructionWhat Does Your Payment Schedule Look Like?
Milestones, not arbitrary datesFair payment schedules are tied to completed phases of work: demo, framing, rough-in, finishes, punch list closed. Anyone requesting large lump-sum payments on calendar dates - regardless of actual progress - is protecting their cash flow at your expense. Payment and progress should always move together.
Source: Diamond B ConstructionHow Do You Handle Changes to the Scope of Work?
Always written - before the work is doneEvery project has changes. The question is whether they're handled professionally. A written change order - signed before the work is done - with a clear cost and timeline impact is standard. Any contractor who says 'we'll figure it out later' is setting up an argument over your final invoice.
Source: Diamond B ConstructionWill You Pull Every Required Permit?
Your GC owns the permit - not youYour contractor should pull every applicable permit - in their name, not yours. A contractor who suggests having you pull your own permits is either unlicensed for part of the work or avoiding the inspection record. Every permitted project gives you legal protection, documentation, and a cleaner path when you sell.
? Source: City of Austin Development ServicesFrequently Asked Questions
What if a contractor refuses to answer these questions?
How many contractors should I get bids from?
Related Services
More From the Blog
Ask Us Every One of These Questions
Diamond B Construction will answer all of them, upfront and in writing. Get an Estimates, no pressure - straight answers from William.