What to Look for in a General Contractor: Key Qualities and Questions to Ask

When you're planning a construction project, whether it's a home remodel or a new commercial space, choosing the right general contractor is one of the most important decisions you'll make. The contractor you hire will be responsible for turning your vision into reality, so it's crucial to find someone with the right experience, communication skills, and reliability.

Here is a guide on what to look for in a general contractor and the essential questions to ask before hiring one.

Key Qualities to Look for in a General Contractor:

1. Experience and Expertise You want a contractor who has a proven track record of successfully completing projects similar to yours. A contractor with experience in both residential remodels and commercial construction, like Good Dog and Co., understands the unique challenges of each type of project and can navigate them with ease.

2. Reputation and References A strong reputation speaks volumes. Look for a contractor with positive reviews, testimonials, and a portfolio of completed projects. Ask for references and speak directly to past clients about their experiences.

3. Licensing and Insurance Make sure the contractor is fully licensed and insured to operate in your area. This protects you in case of any accidents or issues during the project.

4. Clear Communication Your contractor should be someone who listens to your needs, keeps you informed, and answers your questions promptly. Clear communication ensures that the project runs smoothly and that you’re on the same page every step of the way.

5. Commitment to Quality and Timeliness A great contractor is committed to delivering high-quality work on time and within budget. They should be able to provide a realistic timeline and stick to it as closely as possible, keeping you updated if there are any changes.

The Most Important Questions to Ask a General Contractor:

1. What experience do you have with projects like mine? Not all projects are the same, so it’s important to ask if the contractor has experience with the specific type of work you need. For example, at Good Dog and Co., we specialize in small to mid-size commercial construction and residential remodels. This allows us to tailor our approach based on your specific needs.

2. Can you provide references or a portfolio of your past work? Any reputable contractor should be able to show you examples of completed projects and provide references from satisfied clients. Take the time to follow up with these references to get a better understanding of the contractor’s work ethic and results.

3. Are you licensed and insured? This is a non-negotiable. Make sure your contractor has the necessary licenses to operate in your area and carries insurance to protect both you and their workers in case of accidents.

4. What is the expected timeline for my project? Get a clear sense of the project’s start and end dates, as well as any milestones along the way. Be sure to ask how the contractor handles potential delays and what factors could extend the timeline.

5. How do you handle budget changes or unexpected costs? Construction projects can sometimes involve surprises. It’s important to know how your contractor handles changes to the budget and how they communicate those changes. A good contractor will be upfront about costs and provide written estimates.

6. Who will be the main point of contact during the project? Clear communication is key to a successful project, so find out who you’ll be dealing with on a day-to-day basis. Will it be the contractor themselves or a project manager?

7. What is your payment schedule? Understanding the payment schedule helps ensure transparency and protects you from paying too much upfront. Typically, contractors will require a deposit, with subsequent payments tied to project milestones.

Choosing the right general contractor can make all the difference in the success of your project. By focusing on experience, reputation, and communication—and by asking the right questions—you can ensure that your project will be completed on time, on budget, and to your satisfaction.

At Good Dog and Co., we take pride in being a reliable and trustworthy partner for all your construction needs. If you have any questions or want to discuss an upcoming project, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to help bring your vision to life!