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The Contractor’s Compass: Questions to Ask Before You Sign Anything

The Contractor’s Compass: Questions to Ask Before You Sign Anything

RLW: The Mixer Minute

A handshake isn’t enough when it comes to construction. Before signing any contract, it’s crucial to ask the right questions to protect your project, your budget, and your peace of mind.

✅ 1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

This should always be question number one. Ask for proof of:

  • State or local licensing

  • General liability insurance

  • Workers’ comp coverage (especially if they have employees)

No insurance = all the risk falls on you.

✅ 2. Can You Provide References or Photos of Past Work?

A quality contractor should be able to show you completed projects similar to yours. Ask for:

  • Photos (before, during, after)

  • Reviews

  • Phone numbers for recent clients

Look for consistency in quality and communication.

✅ 3. What’s the Payment Schedule?

Never pay in full upfront. Ask:

  • How is payment broken up?

  • What triggers each payment (e.g. materials delivery, milestones)?

  • Are there late fees or incentives for early completion?

A clear schedule protects both parties.

✅ 4. What’s the Estimated Timeline?

You need more than just a start date. Ask about:

  • Duration of the job

  • What might delay it

  • How weather or change orders are handled

Vague answers are a red flag.

✅ 5. Who Will Be On-Site?

Will the person you're talking to manage the crew? Are they using subcontractors? Know:

  • Who’s doing the actual work

  • Who to contact with questions

  • If background checks are done on workers

✅ 6. What Happens If Something Goes Wrong?

Don’t wait until there’s a problem to find out how it's handled. Ask:

  • What’s covered under warranty?

  • How are disputes resolved?

  • Will they fix issues after payment?

A good contractor should have clear answers here.

✅ 7. Is Everything in Writing?

Verbal promises don’t hold up. Make sure the contract includes:

  • Scope of work

  • Materials and brands used

  • Timeline and payments

  • Cleanup and disposal expectations

  • Permit responsibilities

A trustworthy contractor won’t be thrown off by these questions—they’ll appreciate your diligence. It shows you’re serious, and they should be too.



⚠️ Legal Disclaimer:
This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional, legal, or construction advice. Every project is unique, and conditions may vary. RLW Concrete LLC is not liable for any actions taken based on this information. Always consult with a qualified professional or attorney for your specific needs.
License #PA65009

Location: G8X2+3V Lykens, PA, USA

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