Top Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Remodeling Contractor in Phoenix
Hiring the right remodeling contractor can make all the difference in the success of your home renovation. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen in Scottsdale, updating a bathroom in Tempe, or restoring a historic home in Phoenix’s Willo District, asking the right questions up front ensures you partner with a team that delivers quality, honesty, and value.
At Homework Remodels, we believe informed homeowners make the best remodeling decisions. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the top questions to ask before hiring a remodeling contractor, along with insights into how we answer them.
1. Are You a Licensed, Bonded, and Insured Contractor?
This is non-negotiable. In Arizona, remodeling contractors are required to be licensed by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. Ask to see proof of license, bonding, and insurance to ensure you’re protected in the event of accidents, damages, or disputes.
✅ Homework Remodels is fully licensed, bonded, and insured. We’re proud of our longstanding reputation and compliance standing with Arizona’s ROC.
2. How Long Have You Been in Business?
Experience matters. Remodeling can be complex—especially in older or historic homes—so you’ll want a contractor with a solid track record.
✅ Homework Remodels has been remodeling homes in Phoenix since 2005. Our decades of experience provide us with deep local expertise, and we’ve completed award-winning projects throughout the Valley.
3. Can You Share References or Reviews from Past Clients?
Reputable contractors will be happy to provide references, online reviews, or case studies of completed projects. Please read them carefully and look for patterns in client satisfaction.
✅ We encourage you to read our reviews on Google, Houzz, and GuildQuality, or ask us for references. Many of our clients are happy to share their experience working with us.
4. Do You Use Subcontractors or an In-House Team?
Knowing who will be on your property—and whether they’re managed directly—can impact communication, scheduling, and quality control.
✅ At Homework Remodels, we use a blend of in-house specialists and carefully vetted trade partners, all overseen by our project manager and design team.
5. What Is Your Design-Build Remodeling Process?
A transparent process is key. You should know what to expect at every stage—from initial consultation through design, permitting, construction, and final walkthrough.
✅ We utilize a refined Design-Build System that provides you with a single point of contact, transparent communication, detailed planning, and complete accountability.
6. Will You Provide a Detailed, Fixed-Price Proposal?
Avoid vague bids or open-ended estimates. A professional contractor should provide a written proposal with a clearly outlined scope, allowances, and pricing.
✅ Our fixed-price proposals are thorough and honest. We detail every category and align the scope with your approved design and budget.
7. What Is Your Timeline for Completion?
Understand how long the job will take and what could affect the timeline. Also, ask how they schedule jobs and minimize downtime.
✅ We give you a realistic, milestone-based schedule from the start—and we stick to it. You’ll know what’s happening and when.
8. How Do You Handle Permits and Inspections?
A professional contractor should pull the necessary permits and coordinate city inspections on your behalf.
✅ We handle all permitting, code compliance, and inspections. We’re familiar with Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, East Valley cities, and historic district regulations.
9. Can You Help with Material Selections and Design?
Design decisions can overwhelm homeowners. Having help with selections ensures that everything fits together visually and functionally.
✅ Our in-house design team, led by Master Certified Kitchen and Bath Remodeler Sheila Lanier, guides you through all selections—from floor plan to tile patterns.
10. How Will You Communicate During the Project?
Reliable communication prevents misunderstandings and builds trust. Ask how frequently they update you and who your main contact will be.
✅ You’ll have a dedicated project manager who will check in with you regularly. We’re available by phone, email, and in person as needed.
11. What Steps Do You Take to Protect My Home During Construction?
Construction is messy, but it shouldn’t be destructive. Ask about dust control, floor protection, and site cleanliness.
✅ We utilize dust barriers, floor protection, daily cleanups, and respectful job site behavior to minimize disruptions to your home and family.
12. What Type of Warranty Do You Offer?
A good contractor stands behind their work. Ask for written warranty terms for labor, materials, and workmanship.
✅ We offer a written warranty for every project and remain available to answer questions or provide follow-up services even after the project is completed.
13. Have You Worked on Homes Like Mine?
Every home is different, especially older homes. Ask whether they’ve remodeled homes similar in age, layout, or architectural style.
✅ We’ve remodeled historic homes, mid-century properties, and new builds alike. Whether your home is in Arcadia, Willo, or North Scottsdale, we bring deep experience.
14. What Sets You Apart from Other Remodeling Contractors?
This question helps you understand their philosophy and values. Listen for transparency, passion, and professionalism.
✅ Homework Remodels stands out for our people-first design-build process, award-winning craftsmanship, and unwavering commitment to clarity and collaboration.
15. Can I See Examples of Your Past Work?
Before-and-after photos, portfolios, or walkthroughs of completed projects provide insight into the contractor’s design sensibility and construction quality.
✅ Visit our project gallery to explore transformations across the Valley—from kitchen remodels in Phoenix to luxury baths in Chandler.
Start Your Remodel with Confidence
Asking the right questions before hiring a remodeling contractor will save you time, stress, and money. At Homework Remodels, we welcome your questions, and we’re ready to prove why we’re one of the most trusted design-build remodeling companies in Phoenix and the East Valley.
We proudly serve:
- Phoenix
- Scottsdale
- Tempe
- Chandler
- Mesa
- Gilbert
- Historic neighborhoods like Willo, Encanto, and F.Q. Story
Let’s discuss your vision and how our experience, communication, and process can bring it to life.
Contact Homework Remodels today to schedule your consultation.