A written quote is only as good as the contractor behind it. Before you sign, ask for these five things and compare them across every quote you get.
1. A license, where your state requires one
Licensing rules differ from state to state and by trade. Ask which license the contractor holds for your project, and check it with the licensing board that issued it.
2. Proof of insurance
Ask for a certificate of general liability insurance and, if the contractor has employees, workers' compensation. A certificate is sent by the insurer, so you can confirm it is current.
3. References from recent, similar jobs
Ask for two or three homeowners whose projects were like yours, finished in the last year or two, and call them.
4. A written estimate with the full scope
The estimate should name the work, the materials and their brands, who pulls any permit, how debris is removed and when the job starts and ends.
5. Payment terms you are comfortable with
Know the deposit, what each later payment is tied to, and what is owed at the end. Keep every change to the job in writing.
You are never obliged to hire anyone who gives you a quote. Take the time you need to compare.