How To Choose The Right Contractor (Watch Out For These Red-Flags!)
So, you need to hire a general contractor or trades person. You are probably Googling “how to choose the right contractor” and, you’re probably feeling a little nervous. Rightfully so, considering the countless scam stories out there. As a designer, I have my own horror stories to share (and have shared some on this blog—links below). Renovating is expensive, exhausting, and scary. It can leave you with disappointing results if you don’t hire the right person. Honestly, hiring the wrong contractor is worse than making poor design decisions (and those are bad enough). That’s how high the stakes are.
AVOID COSTLY (AND UGLY) DESIGN MISTAKES
Over the years, I’ve worked with many different contractors and gathered enough insight to confidently share this list of red flags and what you should be looking for.
Before we dive in, let me say: I deeply appreciate contractors and trades people. Without them, my design visions wouldn’t become reality. This post isn’t about bashing anyone. Great, honest contractors exist. But like in every industry, there are some who are unqualified, dishonest, or simply not the right fit—whether due to poor organization, lack of care, or subpar work. So, think of this list like dating red flags. Don’t ignore them. There are good fish out there, but clarity and caution will save you heartache.
Keep reading to discover how to choose the right contractor.
Read: The Truth about Working in the Interior Design Industry
Read: Condo Staging Project Gone Sour – How I was Fooled
Red Flags to Watch Out For When Hiring a Contractor
1. The “I Can Do It All” Contractor
Typically, I suggest avoiding the jack-of-all-trades contractor. Now, these guys can be great for small handyman jobs. However, when it comes to dynamic renovations, you want someone who specializes in the particular scope you require. Avoid hiring the guy who also installs fences, paves driveways, and does electrical for your first floor renovation project. While exceptions exist, hiring someone specialized usually means fewer surprises and better results.
In my experience, these generalist contractors often lack the depth of knowledge and precision of the project needs. They want to take on every project, but in doing so, they do not become specialists of anything in particular. Often, the results are disappointing.
Also, be wary of contractors who claim to be designers. As a designer, I’ve seen how that goes. The end results are usually cookie-cutter and uninspired. It’s one thing to select finishes—it’s another to understand proportion, flow, lighting, and spatial harmony. I’ve been called in to rescue projects where the contractor tried to design, only to realize halfway through that they were in over their head.
Bottom line: Look for a contractor who knows their strengths, specializes in your type of project, and subcontracts appropriately for areas outside their expertise.
2. Vague or Undetailed Quotes
You know the saying: The devil is in the details. That’s especially true in the design and construction world. Too often, I’ve shared detailed drawing sets and done thorough walk-throughs, only to receive a quote with no clarity. Sometimes, it’s literally just a number—no breakdown, no specifics.
Think about that: Why would a Starbucks order has more detail than a $100K renovation quote?
Avoid contractors who provide vague descriptions like “new flooring.” What kind of flooring? Who’s supplying it? Does it include demo, prep, installation? If a quote leaves you with more questions than answers, move on. Look for a contractor who’s detail-oriented and can walk you through every line item.
3. No Contract in Place
If a contractor doesn’t offer a contract—run. A signed agreement protects both you and the contractor. It sets expectations around scope, timeline, payments, liability, insurance, workplace conditions, delays, and unforeseen events (like pandemics or disasters).
Just like I require my design clients to sign a service agreement, your contractor should offer a formal contract before any work begins. It’s not unnecessary—it’s essential.
4. The Promo-Crazy Contractor
Contractors who constantly run flashy promos—“Free bathroom with kitchen reno!” or “$2,000 off your quote!”—often prioritize volume over quality. In my experience, these gimmicks are red flags. They attract quick jobs, not necessarily great work.
The best contractors are often booked in advance and don’t need gimmicks to win clients. Their work speaks for itself. Focus on someone who’s consistent, reputable, and steady—not someone throwing around desperate discounts.
What To Look For In A Good Contractor
Now that I’ve laid out the contractor red flags, you might be asking yourself: “Well, what should I be looking for in a good contractor?”
It’s actually pretty simple—and I’ll break it down for you:
- A contractor who reviews the drawings thoroughly before even setting foot on-site
- Someone with a clear team structure and dedicated trades for each aspect of the job
- Transparent, detailed estimates and contracts that leave no room for confusion
- Strong social proof: good reviews, testimonials, and visible past work
At the end of the day, I always say—trust your gut.
That might sound a little woo-woo, but the truth is, you need to feel a sense of trust in the contractor you’re hiring. If that trust is missing, take a moment to pause and ask yourself why. Is there a real reason behind your hesitation? Don’t ignore those feelings. It’s okay to keep interviewing different contractors until you find one you feel confident moving forward with.
An Interior Designer’s Role In Choosing The Right Contractor
The Cheat Code: How To Choose The Right Contractor
Now, I highly recommend working with an interior designer on your project.
And yes, I’m biased—so take that with a grain of salt. But in all honesty, there’s a major advantage to having someone on your side who’s worked with many different contractors. Designers can spot red flags fast. We know how to navigate tough conversations, what questions to ask what to look for, and how to make informed decisions on behalf of our clients.
Beyond the design help, that kind of support is incredibly valuable. So, consider hiring a designer for all the added benefits—or at the very least, read this blog post again so you truly absorb what red flags to run from!
Hiring a contractor is scary, expensive, and—yes—can ruin your life (not to be dramatic). Renovations are emotional, intense, and can stretch on for months. Choose someone who brings clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.
Choose your contractor the way you’d choose a life partner—with caution, care, and a healthy sense of skepticism. You’re not just building a home. You’re investing in your future comfort and happiness. I hope this post gave you a solid foundation on how to choose the right contractor. Let me know in the comments below what you found most helpful.
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