What Every Homeowner Should Ask Before Hiring a Contractor

Protect your home—and your sanity—with the right questions before you sign anything.

Hiring a contractor isn’t just about price—it’s about trust, accountability, and knowing you’ll get what you paid for. Whether you’re building a deck, remodeling a kitchen, or adding on to your home, the wrong team can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.

At Crespo & Company, we’ve met too many clients who came to us after a bad experience. Our goal is to help you avoid that entirely. These are the questions we think every homeowner should ask—and the ones we’re always ready to answer.

1. Are You Licensed, Insured, and Bonded in Virginia?

It’s not just a formality. A licensed contractor meets minimum legal and trade requirements. Insurance protects you from liability. And bonding helps cover incomplete or faulty work.

Crespo & Company is fully licensed, bonded, and insured in Virginia—because we believe peace of mind should be built into the project.

2. Will You Handle the Permits and Inspections?

A serious builder won’t expect you to deal with zoning offices or county inspections. If they ask you to pull your own permits—walk away.

We handle all permitting, code compliance, and inspections in-house—so your project is built legally and efficiently from day one.

3. Can I See Real Photos and References from Past Clients?

Online portfolios can be misleading. Ask for real project photos and recent client testimonials. A quality contractor should be proud to show their work—and have people willing to speak for them.

We’ll always provide references, reviews, and samples of our completed work so you know exactly what to expect.

4. How Do You Handle Unexpected Issues or Change Orders

Things come up during construction. What matters is how your builder handles them. You want someone who communicates early, documents clearly, and never blindsides you with surprise costs.

We operate with full transparency. Any changes are reviewed with you in writing before anything moves forward.

5. What’s Your Project Timeline—and How Will You Keep Me Informed?

Delays happen, but silence isn’t acceptable. Ask how timelines are structured, and how often you’ll get updates.

Crespo & Company builds timelines into every contract—and we keep you informed with clear communication throughout the build. You’re never left guessing.

Hiring a Contractor Is About More Than a Number

The lowest bid means nothing if the work isn’t done right. Ask these questions early—and only work with professionals who are ready to answer with clarity and confidence.

At Crespo & Company, we believe in craftsmanship, transparency, and doing things right. From design to build, we bring structure and care to every project.

Let’s Build Something You Can Trust

If you’re ready to work with a contractor who welcomes tough questions, let’s talk.

Schedule a consultation with Crespo & Company and get expert guidance from the start.