21 Questions to Ask Your Kitchen Remodeling Contractor

Questions to Ask Your Kitchen Remodeling Contractor

Here’s what to ask a kitchen remodeling contractor before you hire them:

1. Are you licensed and insured? Can I see your license? A current license proves the contractor is legitimate, and insurance shows you’re covered if someone is injured on your property.
   
   
2. What experience do you have with remodeling projects like mine? You want proof that the remodeling contractor can complete your project according to your vision and in a way that fulfills all the reasons why you wanted to remodel your kitchen in the first place.
   
   
3. Do you have a portfolio I can look at? Whether it’s a dedicated social media account or a section on a website, browse through the contractor’s portfolio to get a feel for their style and expertise.
   
   
4. How long will my kitchen remodel take to complete? The contractor probably won’t be able to give you an exact completion date until you sign a contract, but they can offer you a rough timeline for how long your remodel could take.
   
   
5. Do you work consecutively until the project is done? Find out how steps like drying or curing will be handled and how quickly the contractor will return to your home to finish the job once they’re complete.
   
   
6. Is there a wait time for the project to start? Ask the contractor when they could start on your project if hired.
   
   
7. How much will my project cost? The estimated cost will be subject to change, but the contractor should be able to offer a quote that you can use for budgeting purposes.
   
   
8. How will payment work? Ask about any deposit due dates and payment method requirements.
   
   
9. How long have you been in business? Established contractors will give you a brief history of their business which you can use to verify their expertise.
   
   
10. What kind of kitchen remodeling elements do you specialize in? You are listening for signs that the contractor will be able to deliver phenomenal work for the elements of your remodel that are most important to your style. For example, if beautifully finished hardwood flooring is central to your vision, you’ll want to hire a hardwood flooring specialist.
    
    
11. How many kitchens have you and your team remodeled together? If your contractor works with assistants, you’ll want to know a little more about their professional backgrounds.
    
    
12. What is your kitchen remodeling process? Great remodeling contractors have a set process you can follow so you always know what comes next.
    
    
13. How will we communicate during the project? Establish how exactly you can expect to hear from and speak to your contractor before remodeling begins. Check out our full list of do's and don'ts for your kitchen remodel.
    
    
14. How will you protect my property? Ask about drop cloths, tarps, and barriers the contractor uses.
    
    
15. Do you clean the area every day? While it may not be possible to scrub a construction site clean every day, it’s a good idea to hire a contractor who routinely removes tools from the work site, clears surfaces of hazards, and blocks off heavy equipment to prevent accidents.
    
    
16. Do you have a list of references or recent reviews from past clients? Ask the contractor for references, but also search for client feedback posted on 3rd party review sites online.
    
    
17. Would I lose access to a few items in my kitchen or the whole area during the remodel? You’ll use this information as you prepare to live without full access to your kitchen. The remodeler can tell you exactly which areas of your kitchen you’ll lose.
    
    
18. What sort of contract do you use? Take note of terms and conditions or warranties you can expect on a drafted contract.
    
    
19. What is your daily schedule during a remodel? Find out what time they generally begin work in a home and what time they end.
    
    
20. Will this project need subcontractors? You’ll want to see the credentials for any outside contractors.
    
    
21. Do you take care of permits? You’ll need to know if you’re responsible for getting necessary permits for plumbing, electrical, or HVAC work from your local government or if the contractor offers a special service that can take care of it for you.

Get a Free Estimate & Ask NJ’s Kitchen Remodeling Experts Anything at a Consultation

Our team at Oceanside Painting & Refinishing has more than 20 years of experience working with homeowners to create kitchens that are customized to meet their exact needs. We’d be happy to answer any questions you have and offer you a free estimate for your kitchen remodeling project. 

Call Oceanside Painting & Refinishing today at 732-818-0092 or fill out the quick form below for your free estimate!