Choosing the right general contractor can make or break your construction project. Make sure you hire the best fit by asking these essential questions.
Selecting a general contractor is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your construction project. The right contractor brings expertise, reliability, and peace of mind. The wrong one can lead to delays, cost overruns, and subpar work. Here are five critical questions to ask before signing any contract.
This is non-negotiable. A legitimate contractor should have:
In Florida, contractors must be licensed by the state or local jurisdiction
Protects you financially if the contractor fails to complete the work
Covers liability and workers' compensation to protect you from liability
Always ask to see proof of these credentials and verify them independently. At Spire Constructors, we maintain all required licenses, bonds, and insurance, and we're happy to provide documentation.
A reputable contractor should have a portfolio of completed projects and satisfied clients willing to vouch for their work. Ask for:
Don't just take their word for it—actually call those references and ask about their experience, including how the contractor handled challenges and whether the project stayed on budget and schedule.
Communication is key to a successful project. You need to understand:
Will you work directly with the owner or a project manager?
Daily, weekly, or as milestones are reached?
Phone, email, in-person meetings, or project management software?
What's the process for change orders and additional work?
Get realistic expectations about your project timeline. Ask about:
Estimated Start and Completion Dates: Based on their current workload and your project scope
Potential Delays: What factors might cause delays and how they're typically handled
Contingency Plans: How they manage weather delays, material shortages, or other unforeseen issues
Red Flag: Be wary of contractors who promise unrealistically short timelines or can start immediately despite being "highly recommended."
Get everything in writing. A detailed bid should include:
Complete scope of work with detailed specifications
Materials to be used (brands, grades, quantities)
Labor costs and subcontractor information
Permit and inspection fees
Payment schedule tied to project milestones
Warranty information
Payment Schedule Best Practice:
Never pay more than 10-15% upfront. Payment should be tied to completed work milestones, with the final payment after project completion and your satisfaction.
Beyond these questions, pay attention to how contractors respond. Are they professional, transparent, and patient with your questions? Do they seem genuinely interested in your project? A good contractor-client relationship is built on trust and communication.
At Spire Constructors, we answer all your questions with transparency and provide references gladly.
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