What to Ask for
Request 3-5 references from projects completed in the last 12-24 months that are similar in scope to your project. A contractor who cannot provide current references from similar projects is a concern.
Questions to Ask References
- Did the contractor stick to the original quote, or were there significant change orders?
- Did the project finish on time, and if not, what caused delays?
- Was the worksite kept reasonably clean during construction?
- Were subcontractors professional and respectful of the home?
- Would you hire this contractor again?
- Were there any problems, and how did the contractor handle them?
What to Listen For
- Enthusiasm vs. reluctant short answers — coached references often answer without detail
- Specific examples of problems and how they were resolved
- Hesitation when asked about cost overruns or delays
- Whether the reference independently brings up communication quality
Frequently Asked Questions
How many contractor references should I check?
Check at least 3. Ask for 5 and see how many the contractor can provide. Being unable to provide 3-5 current references from similar projects is a red flag for less experienced or less reputable contractors.
Is it enough to just read online reviews?
Online reviews are a useful starting point but incomplete. Reviews tend to be either very positive or very negative. Direct reference calls give you the opportunity to ask specific questions about communication, cost control, and problem resolution.