Something that is critical for your contractor to have is proof of a license as well as insurance. You want to make sure you’re hiring a licensed professional with a proven track record of getting the job done properly. Having a licensed professional working on your project likely also guarantees the fact that the contractor is insured. If the contractor were to have an accident while working on your project, their insurance should cover any of their potential medical bills. If something were to be damaged during the project or prove faulty after the project, their insurance should cover the repairs or replacements necessary.  Proof of a license and insurance is not only for the contractor’s protection, but for yours as well.

Generally speaking, what hours does the contractor plan on working? Maybe they are agreeing to do your project as a side job and need to work evenings and weekends. Maybe this project is going to be their full-time gig for the next few weeks, and they’ll be working roughly 9-5. It’s important to discuss general hours with the contractor before you hire them because not only will it ensure you’re both on the same page, but it will also allow you to plan your life around the project as much as possible. It’s also important to get a rough idea of how long the project will take. Something that you think might only take a few weeks might be ballparked to take several months according to the contractor. Hash all these things out before you sign on so that there aren’t surprises for anyone.

It’s important that both you and your potential contractor agree and understand the expectation when it comes to communication. Do you want daily updates on your project, and if so, is that something the contractor is willing to commit to? Do you expect to be filled-in face to face, via text, or maybe email? Whatever your preferences are, be sure to set expectations for communication before you officially hire anyone.