What to Look for When Hiring a Contractor for Home Repairs

1. Verify Licensing and Insurance

Before hiring any contractor, make sure they have the proper licenses and insurance for your area. This protects both you and the contractor in case of accidents or property damage.

✔️ General liability insurance – Covers damage to your property
✔️ Workers’ compensation insurance – Covers injuries to workers on your property
✔️ State or local licenses – Required for many types of repairs, such as electrical or plumbing work

👉 Pro Tip: Missouri doesn’t have a statewide contractor license requirement, but many cities and counties (including Branson, Springfield, Taney County, and Christian County) have their own regulations.

2. Check Their Reputation

A reputable contractor should have a strong track record of satisfied customers. Here’s how to check:

✔️ Read online reviews on Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
✔️ Ask for references from past clients and follow up with them
✔️ Look at past work – Many contractors have portfolios or online galleries

👉 Red flags: No reviews, multiple complaints, or hesitation to provide references.

3. Get Multiple Quotes

Don’t settle for the first estimate—compare at least three quotes to ensure you’re getting a fair price. When reviewing estimates, pay attention to:

✔️ Labor and material costs – Is everything clearly outlined?
✔️ Project timeline – How long will the job take?
✔️ Payment terms – Never pay 100% upfront; reputable contractors usually require a deposit and progress payments.

👉 Pro Tip: The cheapest quote isn’t always the best. If one estimate is significantly lower than the others, it could mean lower-quality materials or rushed work.

4. Ask About Experience and Specialization

Some contractors specialize in certain types of work. If you’re hiring for a specific project, ask:

✔️ How long have you been in business?
✔️ Have you worked on similar projects?
✔️ Do you have experience with local building codes?

👉 Example: A contractor experienced in roof repairs after storm damage may be better suited than a general handyman.

5. Get Everything in Writing

A detailed contract protects both you and the contractor. It should include:

✔️ Scope of work – What exactly is being done?
✔️ Materials and brands – Ensures quality and prevents substitutions
✔️ Start and completion dates – Keeps the project on schedule
✔️ Payment schedule – Avoids disputes over money

👉 Warning sign: A contractor who won’t provide a written contract is a huge red flag.

6. Ask About Warranties

A good contractor stands by their work. Ask about:

✔️ Workmanship warranty – Covers labor and installation errors
✔️ Manufacturer warranty – Covers defects in materials

👉 Pro Tip: Some warranties require the contractor to be licensed or certified by the manufacturer, so check before hiring.

7. Watch for Scams and High-Pressure Sales

Unfortunately, home repair scams exist. Be cautious of:

🚩 “Door-to-door” contractors offering deals after storms
🚩 Unrealistically low prices
🚩 Contractors demanding large upfront payments
🚩 High-pressure sales tactics

👉 If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Shawn's Final Thoughts

Hiring the right contractor ensures your home repairs are done correctly, on time, and within budget. Take your time, do your research, and don’t rush into an agreement. A little due diligence now can save you thousands of dollars and a lot of stress in the long run.