Finding the right contractor can feel like dating you’re hopeful, maybe a little nervous, and don’t want to waste time or money. Whether you're building your dream home or just finally fixing that weird layout in the kitchen, asking the right questions before signing a contract is key.

Here’s what you should bring up before hiring anyone for the job.

1. How long have you been in business?

Experience counts, but it’s not just about the number of years. What kinds of projects have they done? Are they still excited about the work? A contractor who’s been building for 20 years but hasn’t touched a modern home might not be the right fit if you’re dreaming of clean lines and natural light.

2. Can I see your license and insurance?

It’s not the most thrilling question, but it’s super important. You want someone who’s legally allowed to build in Utah—and who can cover things if something goes sideways. That peace of mind is part of what makes working with good contractors in Utah worth it.

3. What’s your process like?

Every contractor works a little differently. Some are all about quick timelines, while others focus more on the creative side. Ask how they handle bids, design changes, and delays—you want to know what to expect before the hammer hits the first nail.

4. Who will be on-site?

You might talk to the owner at first, but that doesn’t mean they’ll be around once construction starts. It’s good to ask about the crew, the project manager, and how communication will work day to day.

If you're starting home remodeling in Salt Lake City, this is especially helpful—some jobs need tight coordination with electricians, plumbers, and designers, and you want to know who's keeping it all together.

5. Can I talk to a few past clients?

Online reviews are helpful, but chatting with someone who’s worked with your contractor is better. Ask about things like communication, timeline, and how the builder handled problems (because let’s be honest—there’s always something).

6. What’s the realistic timeline?

Notice the word “realistic.” Everyone wants the project done yesterday, but it's better to hear the truth than a sugar-coated guess. Make sure you’re on the same page about start and end dates—and talk about what happens if something delays the job.

7. What’s included in your estimate?

It’s super common for quotes to vary—some contractors include materials and permits, others don’t. Don’t be shy about asking what’s covered. It’s better to know now than get blindsided halfway through when your contractor suddenly says, “Oh, that wasn’t part of the bid.”

Especially when building new construction homes in Salt Lake City, Utah, those little exclusions can add up fast.

8. How do you handle changes during the project?

Maybe you’ll fall in love with a different tile halfway through, or realize you want an extra window. What happens then? Ask about how changes are handled, what the approval process looks like, and how that might affect your budget and schedule.

9. Do you offer a warranty or guarantee?

Even the best work might need a touch-up down the road. Find out what kind of warranty your contractor offers—some might cover labour for a year, others might offer more. Either way, it’s something you’ll want in writing.

10. What kind of projects do you love doing?

This is a question people rarely ask—but it tells you a lot. A contractor who lights up when talking about custom kitchens or mountain-style homes might be a great fit if that’s your style, too. Passion doesn’t lie, and you want someone excited about your project, not just checking off boxes.

Wrapping-Up

Hiring a contractor is a big move and asking smart questions upfront can save you from all kinds of headaches later. You don’t need to grill them like an interrogation, but don’t be afraid to dig a little deeper than the brochure.

10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring Contractors in Utah