Questions to Ask a Contractor Before Hiring Them: A Surrey & White Rock Homeowner’s Guide

Hiring the right contractor is the single most important decision you’ll make during a renovation. Whether you’re planning a kitchen remodel, bathroom renovation, or a larger home upgrade, asking the right questions upfront can save you time, money, and serious stress.

For homeowners in Surrey and White Rock, this guide outlines the most important questions to ask a contractor before hiring them and explains why each question matters.

1. Are You Licensed, Insured, and Covered by WorkSafeBC?

This should always be your first question.

You should confirm:

• A valid BC business license
• Minimum $2M liability insurance (Although nowadays $3M is better)
• Active WorkSafeBC coverage

Why it matters:

If a contractor isn’t properly licensed or insured, you could be financially responsible for damages or injuries on your property.

2. How Much Experience Do You Have With This Type of Renovation?

Not all contractors specialize in the same work.

Ask:

• How many kitchens/bathrooms have you completed?
• Have you worked on homes similar to mine?
• Do you handle full renovations or just parts of the job?

Why it matters:

A contractor experienced in your specific type of renovation will anticipate issues, manage trades better, and deliver higher-quality results.

3. Can You Show Me Recent Projects and Reviews?

Ask to see:

• Before-and-after photos
• Google reviews
• Testimonials from recent clients
• Projects completed in Surrey or White Rock

Then take it one step further…

4. Can I Check Your Social Media to See Real Jobsite Work?

This is a powerful vetting tool most homeowners overlook.

Look for:

• Real jobsite progress
• In-progress videos and photos
• Consistent posting over time
• Real homes not stock images

Why it matters:

Social media shows how a contractor actually operates, not just their marketing highlights.

5. Who Will Be Working in My Home?

Ask:

• Do you use employees or subcontractors?
• Are your trades vetted and insured?
• Who supervises the project day-to-day?

Why it matters:

You want professionals in your home, not random, unvetted labour.

6. Will You Handle Permits and Inspections?

In Surrey and White Rock, many renovations require permits.

Ask:

• Will permits be required for my project?
• Who is responsible for pulling them?
• Will inspections be scheduled and passed?

Why it matters:

Unpermitted work can cause serious issues when selling your home or filing insurance claims.

7. Can You Provide a Detailed Written Quotation?

A professional contractor should provide:

• A detailed quotation
• All materials and products listed
• Scope of work clearly defined
• Labour included
• Allowances clearly stated

Why it matters:

Vague quotes often lead to hidden costs and disputes.

8. What Is the Project Timeline?

Ask:

• How long will the renovation take?
• What are the key milestones?
• What could cause delays?

Why it matters:

You deserve realistic expectations not optimistic guesses.

9. How Do You Handle Changes or Unexpected Issues?

Renovations sometimes uncover surprises.

Ask:

• How are change orders handled?
• Will pricing be approved before work proceeds?
• How do you communicate issues?

Why it matters:

Clear change-management prevents stress and budget blowouts.

10. What Waterproofing or Building Systems Do You Use?

Especially important for kitchens and bathrooms.

Ask:

• How do you waterproof showers and wet areas?
• Do you use professional systems (e.g., Schluter)?
• What steps ensure long-term durability?

Why it matters:

Poor waterproofing is one of the most expensive renovation failures.

11. What Warranty Do You Offer on Your Work?

Ask specifically:

• What warranty covers workmanship?
• What warranties apply to materials?
• What happens if something fails after completion?

Why it matters:

A contractor who stands behind their work builds with confidence.

12. Do You Offer Post-Project Follow-Ups?

This is a sign of a high-quality contractor.

Ask:

• Do you check in after completion?
• How soon and how often?

Why it matters:

Contractors who follow up care about long-term performance not just getting paid.

13. How Will You Protect My Home During Construction?

Ask:

• How do you manage dust and debris?
• Will the site be cleaned daily?
• How are floors and furniture protected?

Why it matters:

Respect for your home is a sign of professionalism.

14. What Makes You Different From Other Contractors?

Listen carefully to the answer.

You’re looking for:

• Clear values
• Process clarity
• Quality standards
• Accountability
• Warranty

Why it matters:

This question reveals mindset, not just marketing.

Why These Questions Matter

Many renovation problems don’t come from bad intentions, they come from bad communication and poor vetting.

Asking these questions helps you:

• Avoid hidden costs
• Avoid unqualified contractors
• Protect your investment
• Ensure quality workmanship
• Reduce stress during the renovation

How Golden Vista Construction Answers These Questions

For homeowners in Surrey and White Rock, Golden Vista Construction is built on transparency, quality, and accountability.

We provide:

• Licensed, insured, WorkSafeBC-compliant operations
• Vetted professional trades
• Detailed quotations with materials listed
• Clear timelines
• Professional waterproofing systems
• Clean, organized job sites
• Above industry standard warranty
• Follow-ups at 3 days, 3 weeks, 3 months, and annually

We believe informed homeowners make better decisions and better renovations.

Planning a Renovation? Let’s Talk First.

Golden Vista Construction proudly serves Surrey, White Rock, and the Lower Mainland.

👉 Fill out our webform form to get started

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📞 Call us for a phone consultation

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We’re happy to answer every question before any work begins.

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