Compare more than the bottom line.

Look for licensing, insurance, relevant experience, clear communication, references, a written scope, detailed estimate, realistic schedule and a professional contract.

Ask about licensing, insurance, similar projects, permits, schedule, payment terms, warranty, cleanup, subcontractors, change orders and how communication will be handled.

Not always. A low estimate may omit important work, use lower-quality materials or lead to change orders. Compare scope, materials, schedule, experience and communication, not price alone.

A good estimate should describe the scope, materials or allowances, labor, exclusions, payment schedule, timeline, permits, cleanup and how changes will be handled.

A change order is a written update to the original scope, price or schedule. It may follow a homeowner request or the discovery of a hidden condition.

Payment schedules vary by project and local rules. Many projects use a deposit followed by progress payments tied to milestones. Terms should be clear before work begins.

Yes. A written contract protects both parties by documenting the scope, price, schedule, payment terms, responsibilities, warranty and change-order process.