Guide
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Contractor
The Short Answer
Before hiring a contractor, ask about similar past jobs, relevant registration, who will do the work, the schedule, the payment stages, the warranty and how problems are handled. Ask for the answers in writing.
About Their Work
- Have you done jobs like this before, and can you show photos or a past customer I can ask?
- Who will be on site each day: you, your own team, or sub-contractors?
- For larger works, are you registered with the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) at a suitable grade?
About the Job
- What exactly is included in the price and what would cost extra?
- When can you start, how long will it take and what could delay it?
- How will you protect the rest of my home and clean up?
About Money and Problems
- What are the payment stages and what must be finished before each one?
- What does the warranty cover, for how long, and how do I claim?
- If something goes wrong, who do I contact and how fast will you respond?
This guide is general advice, not legal or professional advice. Requirements and practices vary by building and project.
