How to Pick a Contractor for a Remodel Without Getting Burned or Overcharged

Choosing the right contractor for a remodel is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make as a homeowner. Pick well, and your home improvement project can run smoothly, come in on budget, and leave you with results you’re proud of. Pick wrong, and you could face delays, unexpected costs, or worse – poor craftsmanship or legal headaches.

At Build Strong, we understand how overwhelming the renovation process can be. With so many remodeling contractors available, it’s easy to feel lost when you just want someone who’s reliable, communicative, and gets the work you want done – done right.

Let’s walk through how to pick a contractor for remodel work without getting burned, so your money is well spent and your project stays on track. Whether you’re planning a small kitchen update or a full house remodel in Irving, TX, this guide is your go-to resource.

Why Picking the Right Contractor Matters

Before anything else, it’s important to recognize that not all contractors are created equal. Your home is one of your largest investments, and remodeling or renovating it is a big decision.

A trustworthy contractor will:

Safeguard your property
Respect your budget
Follow the correct legal liability guidelines
Carry appropriate insurance, including liability insurance and workers’ compensation
Pull required building permits

A bad contractor, on the other hand, can expose you to incomplete work, unsafe job site conditions, or even legal and financial consequences.

Step 1: Know What Kind of Work You Want Done

Before calling anyone, clarify the scope of work. Do you want minor updates, or is it a major home renovation project? Are you remodeling your kitchen, bathroom, or a whole floor?

When you know what kind of remodel you are aiming for, you’ll be in a stronger position to find a contractor who specializes in the type of work you need.

Step 2: Ask Around and Do Your Research

One of the most reliable ways to find a quality contractor is to tap into your network.

Ask neighbors or friends for referrals
Look for contractors near Dallas who have completed similar work done
Check reviews on trusted sites and verify reputations through the Better Business Bureau
Use resources like the National Association of the Remodeling Industry or National Association of Home Builders for lists of vetted contractors in your area

Not all reputable contractors advertise. Often, someone who has had similar work done can lead you to the best people in the business.

Step 3: Narrow Down Potential Contractors

Once you’ve gathered a list of potential contractors, do a quick screening.

Check if the contractor holds a valid license and is insured
Ask if the contractor carries adequate liability insurance and workers’ compensation
Confirm how long they’ve been in business
Look at their completed home improvement projects
Ask to see certificates of insurance and past customer references

If a contractor doesn’t provide these willingly, that’s a red flag.

Step 4: Interview Contractors Like It’s a Job Interview

When you meet with a contractor, treat it like hiring for an important job – because you are.

Here are 14 questions to ask during the interview:

How long have you been a contractor in Dallas?
Are you licensed and insured in Texas?
Can I see your certificates of insurance, including liability insurance and workers’ compensation?
Have you completed projects like mine before?
Will you use employees or subcontractors for this job?
Can I see a sample contract?
How is payment handled?
Do you handle permits, or is that up to me?
What happens if there’s a delay due to weather or supply issues?
How do you protect a job site?
What’s the timeline from start to finish?
Can you share a few email addresses or phone numbers of past clients?
Do you offer a warranty or guarantee?
What sets you apart from other remodeling contractors?

Use these questions to help detect how knowledgeable, organized, and trustworthy a contractor is.

Step 5: Check References and Confirm Insurance

Always, always follow through.

Contact 2-3 references and ask the right questions, like:

- Was the work completed on time and on budget?
- Were there any unexpected issues? If so, how were they handled?
- Would you hire this contractor again?

Call the contractor’s insurance provider to verify coverage
Cross-check against the Better Business Bureau to see if any major complaints are on file

Also, confirm that building permits are handled appropriately. Any good home remodeling contractor will know how to secure the necessary approvals for your property.

Step 6: Get Detailed Bids Before Making a Decision

Once you’ve narrowed the list to 2-3 reputable contractors, it’s time to look more closely at what they propose.

A good contractor will provide a detailed contract, not just an estimate. It should include:

Full description of work to be done
Material and labor costs
Estimated timeline
Permits required
Payment schedule
Warranties or guarantees
A reasonable clause in case the contractor fails to pay subcontractors

Be wary of vague quotes or lowball estimates. If one bid is significantly lower, ask why. You may not be getting the same level of quality or protection. Remember, you often get what you pay for.

Step 7: Understand What You’re Signing

Before signing a contract, make sure everything discussed verbally is in writing.

Red flags to watch out for:

A contractor who insists on full payment up front
Missing contact info
No proof of insurance
Refusal to pull required permits
Pushing you to sign immediately

Take your time. If something feels off, it probably is.

Need help figuring out what to ask or double-check in a bid? Use our free contractor checklist to guide your review.

Step 8: Set Clear Expectations and Maintain Communication

After signing a contract, communication is key. Reputable contractors should:

Answer your questions clearly
Be transparent about any changes or delays
Set up regular project updates
Respect your home and space
Share emergency contact info

If an issue arises, stay calm and seek a resolution. In the rare moments when things can’t be worked out, mediation is a helpful option before considering legal action.

Special Note on Insurance and Permits

Never underestimate the importance of insurance. Make sure the contractor carries both adequate liability insurance and workers’ compensation.

If something goes wrong – whether that’s property damage or an injury on-site – the right coverage will protect you from costly liability.

Also, Don’t forget permits. For most major home improvement or renovation projects, building permits are legally required.

If a contractor doesn’t want to secure a permit or suggests you do the work “under the radar” – walk away.

How to Find a Contractor in Dallas, Texas

Looking to find a contractor for your upcoming remodel in Dallas?

Here’s how you can start:

Visit local contractor directories
Search for contractors near Dallas with good reviews
Ask current homeowners or real estate pros in Dallas who they recommend
Reach out to a trusted resource like Build Strong for reputable local contractors

Whether you’re planning a kitchen face-lift or a home construction addition, we can help you find the right fit.

Choose Smart, Build Strong

Hiring a contractor isn’t just about price. It’s about trust, communication, and having a partner invested in the success of your home renovation.

By following the steps above – from asking the right questions to checking credentials and understanding your agreement – you can confidently hire a contractor who delivers quality, reliability, and peace of mind.

If you’re ready to start or want to talk to someone who’s seen it all, Build Strong is here to help. Browse our recent projects, or reach out to learn more.

Try it today: Begin your research, use our checklist, or contact a contractor you trust.

Your next great remodel starts with a smart decision.