Article
Questions to Ask Before Accepting a Contractor Proposal
Published 2026-07-13 · Updated 2026-07-13 · BLDGDeck Editorial
Direct answer: Most disputes with contractors trace back to unclear scope, allowances that run over, and undocumented change orders. Asking a small number of practical questions before you sign resolves most of them.
Scope
- Can you walk me through exactly what is and isn't included in this scope?
- Where does your scope end and another trade's scope begin?
- How will hidden or existing conditions be handled?
Pricing and allowances
- Which line items are fixed prices and which are allowances?
- What happens if an allowance is exceeded — do I get a written change order first?
- Are your prices valid for a set number of days?
Permits and inspections
- Which permits does this work require?
- Who will apply for the permits and schedule the inspections?
- Is the permit cost included in the price?
Insurance and licensing
- Can you provide a current certificate of insurance and license information?
- Are your subcontractors also covered by insurance?
Materials
- Where are specific brands and models called out, and where is the specification generic?
- Do you need my written approval before substituting a specified material?
Timeline
- What is your earliest realistic start date?
- How many crew members will be on site each day?
- How are delays communicated?
Payment terms
- How is the deposit structured?
- Are progress payments tied to defined milestones I can inspect?
- Is any amount held back until the punch list is complete?
Warranty and post-completion
- What warranty do you provide on workmanship?
- What is not covered by the warranty?
- Who do I contact for warranty issues after the project ends?
This article is for general informational purposes only. It is not legal, construction, engineering, or licensing advice. Consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your project.