10 questions to ask a contractor before you hire

1. Are you licensed and insured?

Ask for proof of licensing for regulated trades and current liability insurance. On Genie these are verified before a pro can take work.

2. Can I see recent, similar projects?

Photos and references for jobs like yours tell you more than a five-star average. Look at work in the same category.

3. What's included — and excluded?

Get scope in writing: materials, cleanup, disposal, and what would be an added cost. Genie quotes break this out.

4. What's the timeline and schedule?

Confirm start and finish dates and who's on site. Vague timelines are the top source of renovation stress.

5. Who will actually be doing the work?

Find out whether it's the person quoting, their own crew, or subcontractors — and whether everyone is vetted. On Genie every crew member on a team job is background-checked, not just the lead.

6. Do you provide a written agreement?

A clear written scope, price and timeline protects both sides. Genie captures the scope and price in the booking or accepted quote.

7. How do you handle changes or surprises?

Ask how extra work is priced and approved. On Genie, any extra hours or materials must be approved by you before you're charged — no surprise invoices.

8. How and when do I pay?

Avoid large upfront cash. Genie holds on-demand payments until you confirm the job's done, and projects are arranged with the pro you choose.

9. How will you protect and clean up my home?

Ask about floor protection, dust control and debris removal. A pro who plans for cleanup treats your home with care.

10. What warranty do you offer?

A workmanship warranty shows the pro stands behind the work. Get the length and terms in writing — Genie jobs are warranty-backed.

FAQ