Questions to ask a renovation contractor before signing

Most homeowners sign a contract with a contractor because they like the quote or the person seems friendly. Then three weeks in, they discover the contractor has no plan for managing plumbing approvals, has already hired two sub-contractors without asking, and quotes "extra costs for unforeseen issues" at double the original rate. The real sifting happens before you sign — in the questions you ask and how the contractor answers them.

Will you put the timeline and payment schedule in writing before we start?

A vague timeline — "four to six weeks, depending" — is how surprises begin. Ask the contractor to map out each phase: demolition, rough plumbing and electrics, inspections, finishing. Ask which tasks depend on others, and what could cause delays. A good answer includes specific dates or week numbers and names the client, contractor and trades involved in each stage.

Pay attention to how they explain payment terms. If they say "50% upfront, 50% on completion," ask why. If they want 70% or 80% upfront, that's a red flag — they're financing the job with your money. A standard structure ties payments to milestones: a portion when materials are delivered, another when rough-ins are approved, another when finishes are done. If the contractor is evasive about payment timing or resists tying it to work stages, that's a signal to keep looking.

Who's responsible for approvals and inspections, and how much will they cost?

This question separates contractors who've done kitchens and bathrooms many times from those winging it. In most provinces, bathroom plumbing and electrical work needs sign-off. The contractor should explain whether they handle applications, whether they attend inspections, and how delays in approvals get managed. They should also be clear about inspection costs — who pays for the local authority inspector, and what happens if work fails inspection.

If a contractor says "approvals are your job" and leaves it at that, they're offloading risk. If they say "I handle it all," ask how long approvals typically take and what happens if the inspector flags issues. A contractor comfortable with this process will walk you through their last two jobs and describe exactly what was inspected and when.

What happens if we hit a structural problem or discover old asbestos?

No one can predict hidden rot, unsafe wiring behind walls, or materials banned decades ago. The right question isn't "Will there be surprises?" — it's "How will we handle them?" A good contractor explains that they'll stop work, document the problem, and get a written estimate for the extra work before proceeding. They should tell you who pays: sometimes the homeowner (if it's a pre-existing condition not caused by the reno), sometimes the contractor (if they created it).

An evasive answer — "We'll cross that bridge when we come to it" — means you could face a bill for thousands of rands mid-project with no warning. Also ask whether the contractor carries liability insurance and how disputes over unexpected costs would be resolved. If they balk at the question, that's telling.

What trades will you hire, and can I see their contact details?

Many contractors work solo or with one trusted electrician, then hire others as needed. Ask them to name the plumber, electrician, tiler and painter they plan to use. Request their names, phone numbers and — crucially — whether those trades are registered with their respective professional bodies. This isn't about policing them; it's about having a clear chain of accountability. If the plumber does something wrong, you need to know who to hold responsible.

Also ask: "If one of your usual trades isn't available, how do you choose a replacement? Can I approve them first?" A contractor who involves you in hiring decisions, or who has a tested roster of alternates, is managing risk properly.

Before you hand over money, you should feel confident that the contractor has answered these questions clearly, in writing where it matters. If you're still uncertain after talking to three or four contractors, Strove's vetted provider profiles include past client feedback and verified credentials — a way to cross-check what you've heard and narrow down who to call.