Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Houston General Contractor

Why Asking Questions Matters Before Hiring

According to the Better Business Bureau, construction and home improvement services rank among the top complaint categories nationwide. Many disputes stem from misunderstandings that could have been avoided with better pre-project communication.

A thorough contractor interview protects you by:

• Revealing red flags early: Evasive answers, lack of documentation, or reluctance to provide references signal potential problems
• Establishing clear expectations: Detailed discussions about timeline, costs, and processes prevent surprises later
• Confirming qualifications: Verifying licenses, insurance, and experience ensures you're hiring a legitimate professional
• Building trust: A contractor who answers questions confidently and transparently demonstrates professionalism
• Protecting your investment: Understanding payment structures, warranties, and problem-resolution procedures safeguards your money

Question 1: Are You Licensed and Insured?

This is the most fundamental question—and a non-negotiable requirement. While Texas doesn't require state-level general contractor licenses for most residential work, contractors should still maintain proper business credentials and insurance coverage.

What to Ask:

• "Do you have TRCC registration?" (Texas Residential Construction Commission registration—required for certain residential work)
• "Are you licensed with the City of Houston?" (Business license verification)
• "Do you have current general liability insurance?" (Minimum $1M coverage recommended)
• "Do you carry workers' compensation insurance?" (Required if contractor has employees)
• "Can I see certificates of insurance (COI)?" (Request written proof—not just verbal confirmation)

Why It Matters:

Without proper licensing and insurance, you could be held liable for injuries on your property, property damage, or subcontractor disputes. General liability insurance protects you if the contractor damages your home, while workers' comp coverage prevents you from being sued if a worker gets injured on your property.

How to Verify:

• Request Certificate of Insurance (COI): Contact the insurance company directly to verify coverage is current
• Check TRCC registration: Visit the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation website
• Verify business licenses: Check with the City of Houston Business License Department
• Review specialty licenses: Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work requires separate licenses

Learn more: Read our comprehensive guide on General Contractor Insurance Requirements in Houston to understand exactly what coverage your contractor should carry.

Question 2: How Long Have You Been in Business?

Experience matters in construction. While newer contractors can deliver quality work, established companies have track records you can verify and proven systems for handling challenges.

What to Ask:

• "How many years have you been operating in Houston?"
• "How many projects like mine have you completed?"
• "What's the largest project you've managed?"
• "Are you a full-time contractor or do you do this as a side business?"
• "Have you worked through Houston's unique challenges?" (hurricanes, flooding, clay soil, extreme heat)

Why Experience Matters in Houston:

Houston's climate and geology create unique construction challenges. Experienced local contractors understand:

• Expansive clay soil: Foundation issues require specialized knowledge
• Hurricane building codes: Wind-resistant construction and proper drainage
• Humidity and moisture: Proper ventilation, mold prevention, and material selection
• Permitting nuances: Navigating Houston's permitting system efficiently
• Flood zone regulations: Base Flood Elevation (BFE) requirements in flood-prone areas

Question 3: Can I See References from Recent Projects?

References provide invaluable insights into a contractor's work quality, professionalism, and reliability. Don't settle for a generic list—request specific references that match your project type and scope.

What to Ask:

• "Can you provide 3-5 references from projects completed in the past 12-24 months?"
• "Do you have references for projects similar to mine?" (kitchen remodels, additions, whole-house renovations, etc.)
• "Can I visit completed project sites?"
• "Do you have references from current projects I can visit?"
• "Are your references in the Houston area?"

Questions to Ask References:

When contacting references, ask detailed questions:

• Quality: "How satisfied were you with the final result?" "Were there any quality issues?"
• Timeline: "Did the contractor meet the promised completion date?" "How did they handle delays?"
• Communication: "Was the contractor responsive?" "Did they keep you informed?"
• Budget: "Did the final cost match the estimate?" "How were change orders handled?"
• Problem resolution: "Did any issues arise? How were they resolved?"
• Cleanliness: "Did they keep the work site clean?" "How was cleanup at project completion?"
• Would you hire again? "Would you recommend this contractor?" "Would you hire them for future projects?"

Question 4: What's Included in Your Estimate?

A detailed, itemized estimate is essential for comparing contractors and avoiding surprise costs. Vague "lump sum" estimates make it impossible to understand what you're paying for or identify missing items.

What a Complete Estimate Should Include:

Estimate Component	What to Look For
Materials	Itemized list with specifications (brand, model, quality level) and quantities
Labor	Broken down by task (demolition, framing, electrical, plumbing, etc.)
Permits & Inspections	All required permits and inspection fees listed separately
Timeline	Start date, completion date, and major milestone dates
Payment Schedule	When payments are due, tied to completion milestones (not dates)
Exclusions	Clear list of what's NOT included (prevents "I thought that was included" disputes)
Allowances	Budget placeholders for items you'll select later (fixtures, finishes, etc.)
Warranty	Duration and coverage of workmanship warranty
Change Order Policy	How changes are documented, priced, and approved

Questions to Ask About the Estimate:

• "Is this estimate itemized or lump-sum?" (Always request itemized)
• "What materials are specified?" (Get brand names, not generic descriptions)
• "What's not included that I might expect?" (Uncover hidden exclusions)
• "How long is this estimate valid?" (Material prices fluctuate)
• "What happens if we need to make changes?" (Change order process)

Learn more: See our detailed breakdown in Houston General Contractor Cost Guide 2025 to understand typical pricing for different project types.

Question 5: What's Your Payment Schedule?

The payment schedule protects both you and the contractor—but it should be structured to incentivize quality work and timely completion. Never pay the full amount upfront, and avoid contractors who demand large deposits before starting work.

What to Ask:

• "What's your payment schedule?"
• "How much deposit do you require?"
• "Are payments tied to milestones or calendar dates?"
• "What's the final payment amount?"
• "Do you require payment before final inspection?"

Recommended Payment Structure:

Payment Stage	Typical %	Milestone
Deposit	10-20%	Upon contract signing (covers materials ordering)
Start of Work	25-30%	When materials arrive and crew starts
Rough-In Complete	25-30%	After framing, electrical, plumbing rough-in inspections pass
Substantial Completion	20-25%	When project is mostly complete (pre-punchlist)
Final Payment	5-10%	After punchlist completion and final inspection approval

Payment Protection Tips:

• Pay by check or credit card: Creates paper trail and dispute rights
• Make checks payable to business, not individual: Verifies legitimate business operation
• Get lien waivers at each payment: Protects you from subcontractor liens
• Withhold 10% until final completion: Ensures contractor completes punchlist items
• Never pay ahead of completed work: You should never be "ahead" on payments relative to completion

Question 6: How Do You Handle Change Orders?

Change orders are inevitable in most construction projects—but how they're managed can make or break your experience. Establish clear procedures upfront to avoid disputes and surprise costs.

What to Ask:

• "What's your change order process?"
• "How do you price changes?"
• "Is there a markup on change order work?"
• "How are changes documented and approved?"
• "Will changes delay the completion date?"

Proper Change Order Procedure:

1. Written documentation required: All changes must be documented in writing before work begins
2. Detailed pricing breakdown: Labor, materials, and any markups clearly itemized
3. Impact on timeline: How the change affects completion date
4. Both parties sign: Homeowner and contractor both approve before proceeding
5. Update contract: Change order becomes part of the official contract

Types of Change Orders:

• Homeowner-initiated: You decide to upgrade materials or add scope (you pay)
• Unforeseen conditions: Hidden problems discovered during work (rotten framing, old wiring, etc.)
• Contractor error: Mistakes or omissions from original estimate (should be absorbed by contractor)
• Design changes: Modifications to approved plans (architect/designer may charge fees)

Question 7: What's Your Project Timeline?

Realistic timelines set proper expectations and help you plan your life around the disruption. Contractors who promise unrealistic completion dates often overpromise and underdeliver.

What to Ask:

• "What's the estimated start date?"
• "How long will the project take from start to final inspection?"
• "What factors could delay the project?"
• "How many projects do you typically manage simultaneously?"
• "Will you be on-site daily?"
• "What happens if you miss the deadline?"

Typical Houston Project Timelines:

Project Type	Typical Duration	Key Factors
Kitchen Remodel (Minor)	2-4 weeks	Cabinet installation, countertops, new appliances
Kitchen Remodel (Major)	6-12 weeks	Layout changes, plumbing/electrical relocation, structural work
Bathroom Remodel (Standard)	2-3 weeks	Fixtures, tile, minor plumbing updates
Bathroom Remodel (Complete)	4-6 weeks	Layout changes, waterproofing, custom tile work
Home Addition (Small)	3-4 months	Single room, foundation, framing, finishes
Home Addition (Large)	5-8 months	Second story, multiple rooms, extensive HVAC/electrical
Whole House Renovation	4-9 months	Full gut, structural changes, all systems upgraded

Houston-Specific Timeline Factors:

• Hurricane season (June-November): Can cause material delivery delays and work stoppages
• Extreme heat (June-September): May slow outdoor work (concrete curing, roofing, siding)
• Heavy rain periods: Delays exterior work (foundation, framing, roofing)
• Permit approval times: City of Houston permitting can take 2-4 weeks or longer for complex projects
• Inspection scheduling: Required inspections may not align perfectly with work schedule

Question 8: Who Will Be On-Site Daily?

Knowing who will actually be doing the work—and who's responsible for quality and problem-solving—is critical for accountability and communication.

What to Ask:

• "Will you be on-site daily?"
• "If not, who will supervise the work?"
• "How often will you personally visit the site?"
• "Do you use employees or subcontractors?"
• "How do you vet subcontractors?"
• "Who is my point of contact for questions or issues?"
• "Will the same crew work my project from start to finish?"

Understanding the Crew Structure:

Owner-operated companies: Owner often works on-site daily (better oversight, consistent quality)

Mid-size companies: Owner visits site regularly, foreman manages daily operations

Large companies: Project manager oversees, field supervisor handles daily work

Subcontractor Management:

Most general contractors use subcontractors for specialized trades (electrical, plumbing, HVAC). This is normal, but ask:

• "Do you use the same subcontractors regularly?" (Consistent relationships = better quality)
• "Are your subcontractors licensed and insured?" (Verify they carry their own coverage)
• "Can I meet key subcontractors before signing?" (Plumber, electrician, tile setter, etc.)
• "How do you handle subcontractor problems?" (Who's responsible if sub does poor work?)

Question 9: How Do You Handle Permits and Inspections?

Proper permitting and inspections aren't just bureaucracy—they ensure work meets building codes, protects your home's value, and keeps you legal. Your contractor should handle this process seamlessly.

What to Ask:

• "Do you obtain all necessary permits?"
• "Are permit costs included in your estimate?"
• "How long does permit approval typically take?"
• "Do you coordinate inspections?"
• "What inspections are required for my project?"
• "What happens if work doesn't pass inspection?"

Common Houston Permits:

• Building Permit: Required for structural changes, additions, major renovations
• Electrical Permit: Any electrical work beyond replacing fixtures
• Plumbing Permit: New fixtures, pipe relocation, gas line work
• Mechanical Permit: HVAC system installation or major modifications
• Demolition Permit: Tearing down structures or major interior demolition
• Fence Permit: Required for fences over 8 feet tall
• Driveway/Concrete Permit: New driveways or major concrete work

Typical Inspection Sequence:

1. Foundation/Footing Inspection: Before concrete is poured (additions)
2. Framing Inspection: After framing is complete but before walls are closed
3. Rough-In Inspections: Electrical, plumbing, mechanical systems (before drywall)
4. Insulation Inspection: Before walls are covered
5. Final Inspection: All work complete, ready for occupancy

Learn more: Our detailed guide on Houston General Contractor Permits and Inspections covers the complete permitting process.

Question 10: What Warranty Do You Offer?

A solid warranty demonstrates a contractor's confidence in their work and provides recourse if problems arise after project completion. Understand exactly what's covered, for how long, and what's excluded.

What to Ask:

• "What warranty do you provide on your workmanship?"
• "How long is the warranty period?"
• "What does the warranty cover?"
• "What's excluded from warranty coverage?"
• "Is the warranty transferable if I sell my home?"
• "How do I make a warranty claim?"
• "What's your response time for warranty issues?"

Standard Warranty Components:

Warranty Type	Typical Duration	Coverage
Workmanship Warranty	1-5 years	Labor and installation quality (defects, errors, poor craftsmanship)
Material Warranties	Varies by product	Manufacturer defects (appliances, fixtures, materials)
Structural Warranty	10 years (major additions)	Foundation, framing, major structural components
HVAC System Warranty	5-10 years (equipment) 1-2 years (labor)	Equipment manufacturer warranty plus installation labor
Roofing Warranty	15-30 years (materials) 2-10 years (labor)	Shingles/materials warranty plus installation warranty

What Should Be Covered:

• Installation defects: Poor workmanship, improper installation, code violations
• Material failures: Defective materials (though manufacturer may be primary coverage)
• Leaks: Roof leaks, plumbing leaks, window/door leaks from poor installation
• Structural issues: Settling, cracking, framing problems
• System failures: HVAC, electrical, plumbing systems not functioning properly

Common Warranty Exclusions:

• Normal wear and tear: Gradual deterioration from regular use
• Homeowner damage: Problems caused by homeowner modifications or misuse
• Acts of God: Hurricane damage, flooding, lightning strikes
• Lack of maintenance: Problems resulting from neglecting required upkeep
• Code changes: New requirements enacted after project completion

Bonus Questions to Consider

Beyond the essential 10 questions, consider asking these additional questions based on your specific project:

About the Company:

• "Do you have a physical business address?" (Not just a P.O. Box)
• "What professional associations do you belong to?" (BBB, NAHB, local builder associations)
• "Have you won any awards or recognition?"
• "Can I see your portfolio of completed projects?"

About the Project:

• "What's the biggest challenge you foresee with this project?"
• "Have you completed similar projects in my neighborhood?" (Knows local codes, HOA rules)
• "What recommendations would you make to improve my plan?" (Tests expertise and design thinking)
• "What mistakes do homeowners commonly make with this type of project?"

About Communication:

• "How will we communicate throughout the project?" (Phone, text, email, in-person)
• "What's your typical response time?"
• "Will I have direct access to you or go through a project manager?"
• "How do you handle disagreements or concerns?"

About Logistics:

• "Where will materials be stored?" (On-site vs. off-site)
• "How will you protect my home during construction?" (Dust barriers, floor protection)
• "What are the work hours?" (Important if you work from home)
• "How do you handle site cleanup?" (Daily vs. weekly vs. end of project)
• "Will I need to move out during construction?"

Red Flags That Should End the Conversation

Some contractor responses are immediate disqualifiers. Walk away if you encounter:

Documenting Your Contractor Interviews

With multiple contractor interviews, it's easy to forget details. Create a standardized evaluation sheet:

Contractor Evaluation Checklist:

• ✅ Company name, contact info, license/registration numbers
• ✅ Years in business, number of Houston projects completed
• ✅ Insurance verified (general liability, workers' comp)
• ✅ References checked (minimum 3)
• ✅ Estimate itemized and detailed
• ✅ Timeline realistic and in writing
• ✅ Payment schedule reasonable (milestone-based)
• ✅ Change order process clearly defined
• ✅ Permits/inspections contractor responsibility
• ✅ Warranty minimum 1 year workmanship
• ✅ Communication responsive and professional
• ✅ Overall impression: Do you trust this contractor?

Making Your Final Decision

After interviewing multiple contractors and checking all the boxes, make your decision based on:

1. Value, not just price: The lowest bid often leads to problems—consider experience, warranty, and reputation
2. Communication: Choose someone who listens, responds promptly, and explains things clearly
3. Professionalism: Organized estimates, detailed contracts, proper licensing/insurance
4. Trust: Your gut instinct matters—choose someone you feel comfortable working with for months
5. References: Consistently positive feedback from recent clients speaks volumes

Conclusion

Asking these 10 essential questions—and truly listening to the answers—protects your investment, sets clear expectations, and establishes a foundation for a successful project. A contractor who answers thoroughly, provides documentation, and welcomes your questions demonstrates the professionalism you deserve.

Remember: The goal isn't to interrogate contractors—it's to find a partner who will deliver quality work, communicate clearly, and stand behind their craftsmanship. The right contractor will appreciate your diligence and answer every question with confidence and transparency.