CONTRACTOR DETECTIVES
Pre-Hire Contractor Checklist

This checklist is a practical planning tool, not legal advice.

Contractor name:
Business name:
Phone:
Email:
Project address:
Project type:
Date:

1. Identity and business footprint
[ ] Business name matches quote, invoice, website, and payment request.
[ ] Physical address or service area is clear.
[ ] Phone and email match public business listings.
[ ] Contractor can identify who owns the business.
[ ] License or registration status has been checked where applicable.
[ ] Insurance certificate requested directly from the insurer or agent.

2. Quote and scope
[ ] Quote describes actual work, not just broad categories.
[ ] Materials are named or allowances are clearly listed.
[ ] Exclusions are written down.
[ ] Cleanup, disposal, permits, and inspections are addressed.
[ ] Start date and estimated duration are written.
[ ] Unknowns are listed instead of hidden.

3. Payment terms
[ ] Deposit amount is written.
[ ] Milestone payments are tied to completed work.
[ ] Final payment is not due before walkthrough and punch list.
[ ] Lien waiver process is understood.
[ ] Payment method matches the business, not an unrelated person.

4. Pressure signs
[ ] No rush demand without a clear reason.
[ ] No refusal to put promises in writing.
[ ] No demand for full payment before work.
[ ] No unexplained change from business payment to personal payment.
[ ] No major scope change without a written change order.

Questions to ask before hiring:
1.
2.
3.

Items to send for a Quick Check:
[ ] Estimate or bid
[ ] Contract
[ ] Photos
[ ] Messages
[ ] Payment request
[ ] Your specific question