Questions to Ask a Flooring Contractor Before a Project

There are many do-it-yourself flooring projects for homeowners with the right home improvement experience and tools. But you may not have the time to do the work yourself or you may simply want to let a professional handle the work. We’ve designed this article to help you find the right pro, but even if you decide to do the work yourself, the information here can help you plan and make you aware of factors you should think about before you begin.

1. Do you have the necessary license for the work?

Choose a flooring contractor who’s licensed for the work in your state. A licensed flooring professional has completed tests that show competency with the work and knows the requirements for the work in your area. 

2. Are you bonded?

Licensing in some states requires the pro be bonded. Hiring a bonded flooring contractor protects you if they aren’t able to pay their workers or if they don’t finish the work.

3. Are you insured?

You should only work with an insured pro. If you hire a contractor who isn’t insured, you might have responsibility for accidents, injuries or damage that happens during the work. Make sure a contractor’s insurance covers any subcontractors as well.

4. How much experience do you have with this type of installation?

Every type of flooring has nuances in prep work and installation. Installation locations, such as moisture-prone areas like kitchens, bathrooms and basements have specific requirements as well. Make sure your installer has the experience to deliver a great-looking and long-lasting floor.

5. Can you show me references and examples of your work?

A good flooring installer will have references from satisfied customers. They should also be able to show you completed projects to give you confidence in the quality of their work. Good references also reassures you that the contractor has experience with the work.

6. What work does the flooring project include?

Your contractor should give you details about the work. You’ll want to know things like who will be in your home, who’s responsible for moving furniture, what kind of subfloor prep and moisture tests the installers do, how the workers protect your home from dust the work creates and more. With some flooring types, such as wood, laminate and vinyl, there should be a plan to allow the flooring to acclimate to your home before installation. Finally, find out what cleanup the installers are responsible for.

7. What warranties come with installation?

New flooring should have a warranty, but you should also understand warranties on the labor itself. Ask about limits, terms and exclusions so you’ll understand what warranties protect your investment.

8. What is the project timeline?

Find out exactly how long the work will take and what factors might change the timing. Delays are possible with any project, so find out what might slow the installation work and what the contractor will do to get the work back on track. Make sure the pro factors in delivery of the flooring and any acclimation time it requires.

9. How can I get in touch with you during and after the work?

The manager or contractor might not be on site for all of the work, so you need a reliable way to contact them if any questions or problems arise. Workers on site might not have the information or authority to handle your concerns. Make sure you can reach the contractor after the work is complete in case anything needs touchup in the days following the installation.

10: Do you provide a written quote?

Having a written quote helps minimize surprises that can break your budget. Make sure your quote tells you exactly what you’re paying for and how much you’re paying. 

11. What are my payment options and when is payment due?

Make sure you fully understand when and how you need to pay for the flooring and installation work.