Why Hiring the Right Contractor is Critical

Choosing the right general contractor can make or break your construction project. Whether you're building a new home, remodeling a space, or working on a commercial property, the contractor you hire will determine the quality, timeline, and final cost. A bad choice can lead to missed deadlines, poor workmanship, and unexpected expenses that throw your budget off track.

The best general contractors are licensed, insured, experienced, and transparent. They provide clear estimates, communicate well, and have a solid track record of completing projects on time and within budget. If a contractor lacks these qualities, you could end up dealing with delays, hidden costs, or even legal issues.

In this guide, we’ll break down the biggest red flags to watch for, how to vet a contractor properly, and the must-have qualities of a trusted professional. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for and how to hire the right contractor for your project. If you’re looking for expert construction services, check out our Comprehensive Guide to Construction Services in Irving, TX.

Red Flags to Watch for When Hiring a Contractor

Not all contractors are reliable. Some cut corners, overcharge, or leave projects unfinished. Before signing any contract, watch for these warning signs.

No License or Insurance

A contractor without a valid license or insurance is a major risk. A license proves they meet local building codes, and insurance protects you if accidents happen. Without these, you could be held responsible for damages or worker injuries. Always ask for proof and verify it with your local licensing board.

Vague or Unclear Estimates

A solid contractor provides a detailed, written estimate with labor, materials, and a payment schedule. If they refuse or give you a vague number, expect hidden fees later. Make sure everything is in writing before you agree to anything.

Pushy Sales Tactics

Be cautious if a contractor pressures you to sign quickly or pay a large deposit upfront. Scammers often rush clients into contracts before they have time to review the details. A trustworthy contractor gives you time to make an informed decision.

No Written Contract

Never agree to work without a signed contract. A good contract includes costs, materials, deadlines, warranties, and payment terms. If a contractor refuses to provide one, walk away. Verbal agreements don’t protect you if things go wrong.

Bad Reviews & Complaints

Online reviews and word-of-mouth referrals tell you a lot about a contractor. If you see repeated complaints about unfinished work, poor communication, or price changes, take it as a warning. Check multiple sources like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau.

Unrealistic Pricing or Timelines

If a bid is significantly lower than others, be careful. Some contractors offer cheap prices to win jobs, then charge extra for "unexpected" expenses. Others promise fast completion times but end up delaying the project. Compare estimates and choose someone with realistic pricing and a proven track record.

Lack of Communication

If a contractor takes days to respond to calls or avoids answering questions, expect problems during the project. Good contractors keep you updated and explain things clearly. If they seem unreliable before the job starts, they won’t get better once the work begins.

Hiring the wrong contractor can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.

How to Vet a General Contractor: A Step-by-Step Guide

Hiring the right general contractor takes more than just a quick Google search. You need to do your homework to make sure you're hiring a skilled and trustworthy professional. Follow these steps to protect your investment.

Step 1: Verify Licensing & Insurance

Before anything else, ask for proof of a valid license and insurance. A licensed contractor meets state and local building codes, while insurance protects you from accidents or property damage. You can verify their license with your local licensing board and request a copy of their liability insurance and worker’s compensation coverage.

Step 2: Review Their Portfolio & Past Projects

A good contractor should have a portfolio of completed projects similar to what you need. Ask for photos, visit completed job sites if possible, and pay attention to quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. If they don’t have past work to show, that’s a red flag.

Step 3: Check References & Reviews

Online reviews help, but nothing beats talking to past clients. Ask the contractor for at least three references and contact them with these questions:

• Was the project finished on time and within budget?

• How was the communication throughout the job?

• Were there any unexpected costs or problems?

• Would you hire this contractor again?

If a contractor hesitates to provide references, move on to the next option.

Step 4: Get Multiple Bids & Compare Pricing

Never settle on the first bid you receive. Instead, get at least three estimates from different contractors. Pay attention to:

• Detailed breakdowns of materials and labor costs

• Realistic timelines for project completion

• Payment schedules (avoid large upfront payments)

Be wary of bids that seem too low—this often means the contractor is cutting corners or will add hidden fees later.

Step 5: Review the Contract in Detail

Before signing, make sure the contract includes:

• Total cost breakdown (including labor, materials, and extra fees)

• Project timeline with clear start and finish dates

• Payment terms (never pay the full amount upfront)

• Warranty details on materials and labor

A professional contractor will be transparent and willing to explain any part of the contract you don’t understand. If they refuse, it’s time to look elsewhere.

Step 6: Set Expectations for Communication & Project Updates

A reliable contractor should provide regular updates and be easy to reach. Before work begins, agree on:

• How often they will provide progress reports

• Who your main point of contact will be

• How they will handle unexpected delays or changes

Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and keeps your project on track.

Vetting a contractor takes time, but it’s worth the effort.

Must-Have Qualities of a Trustworthy General Contractor

A good contractor does more than just complete the job—they make sure the entire process runs smoothly. The best contractors have these key qualities that set them apart from the rest.

1. Experience in Similar Projects

Not all contractors specialize in the same type of work. Whether you’re building a new home, remodeling, or handling commercial construction, choose a contractor with proven experience in that specific area. A contractor with the right background will work more efficiently and avoid costly mistakes.

2. Clear Communication & Transparency

A great contractor is easy to talk to and keeps you updated throughout the project. They should:

• Respond quickly to calls and emails

• Explain project details in simple terms

• Give honest updates on timelines and budgets

If a contractor avoids questions or seems hard to reach, expect problems down the road.

3. Detailed Contracts & Honest Pricing

A trustworthy contractor provides clear, written contracts with no hidden fees. They outline:

• Total project costs and payment schedules

• Start and finish dates

• Warranties on materials and labor

Avoid contractors who only give verbal agreements or refuse to provide a detailed quote.

4. Strong Network of Subcontractors & Suppliers

A general contractor manages a team of subcontractors, including electricians, plumbers, and roofers. An experienced contractor has a reliable crew that delivers quality work. They also have strong relationships with material suppliers, which helps keep costs down and avoid delays.

5. Warranties & Follow-Up Services

A contractor who stands behind their work offers warranties on labor and materials. If issues arise after the job is done, they should be willing to fix them. Before hiring, ask:

• What warranties do you offer?

• How long do they last?

• What is covered under the warranty?

A contractor who avoids warranty questions may not stand by their work.

Hiring a contractor with these qualities ensures your project stays on time, within budget, and meets your expectations.

Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring

Before signing a contract, take the time to ask the right questions. A good contractor will answer with confidence and provide proof when needed. Here are the most important questions to ask before hiring.

1. Are you licensed and insured?

This is non-negotiable. A legitimate contractor should have a valid license and insurance coverage to protect you in case of accidents or damages. Ask for proof and verify it with local authorities.

2. Can you provide references from recent projects?

Speaking with past clients gives you insight into the contractor’s work quality, reliability, and professionalism. If they hesitate or refuse, that’s a red flag.

3. What’s included in your estimate?

A professional contractor provides a detailed, itemized estimate that includes:

• Material costs

• Labor fees

• Permit and inspection costs

• Project timeline

Avoid contractors who only give a lump sum price with no breakdown.

4. How do you handle unexpected costs or delays?

Every project comes with surprises. A good contractor has a plan for handling delays, extra costs, or changes without completely derailing the budget. Get clarity on their process before work starts.

5. Do you offer warranties on your work?

Reputable contractors stand behind their work and provide warranties for labor and materials. Ask how long their warranty lasts and what it covers.

6. How do you communicate project updates?

A contractor should keep you in the loop. Ask:

• Will you provide weekly progress reports?

• Who will be my main point of contact?

• What’s the best way to reach you?

Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and delays.

7. What is your payment schedule?

Avoid paying the full cost upfront. A fair payment schedule typically includes:

• An initial deposit (10-20%)

• Progress payments based on completed work

• A final payment after the job is finished

Be cautious if a contractor demands large upfront payments before starting work.

These questions help you filter out unreliable contractors and choose someone who meets your needs.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Hiring the right general contractor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your project. A licensed, insured, and experienced contractor ensures high-quality work, clear communication, and a smooth construction process. On the other hand, choosing the wrong contractor can lead to delays, unexpected costs, and frustration.

Before making your final decision, watch for red flags, ask the right questions, and take the time to vet your options. A good contractor will be upfront about pricing, provide a detailed contract, and stand behind their work with warranties and a strong reputation.

If you're looking for a trusted general contractor in Irving, TX, turn to Michael Lane Construction. With expertise in general construction, roofing, fencing, concrete, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and more, they provide reliable services backed by quality craftsmanship.

Contact Michael Lane Construction today to discuss your project and get a detailed estimate from professionals you can trust.