Charlotte Home Services
Charlotte contractor hiring checklist
Before hiring any home service provider in Charlotte, run through this checklist to protect yourself.
Before you call
Do these things before reaching out to any contractor.
- Define the scope of work clearly
- Set a realistic budget
- Research average costs for the project type
- Ask neighbors and friends for recommendations
- Check if permits are required for the project
When you call
Ask these questions during initial contact.
- Are you licensed in NC for this type of work?
- Do you have liability insurance and workers comp?
- Can you provide references from recent jobs?
- Do you offer free estimates?
- What is your typical timeline?
- Do you handle permits?
Red flags to watch for
These are warning signs that a contractor may not be reliable.
- No physical address or only a PO box
- Requires large upfront payment (over 20-30%)
- Pressure to decide immediately
- No written estimate or contract
- Unwilling to pull permits
- No insurance or license number
- Cash-only payment requests
- Unsolicited door-knocking after storms
After you hire
Once you have chosen a contractor, protect yourself with these steps.
- Get everything in writing — scope, price, timeline
- Never pay full amount upfront
- Make final payment only after work is complete
- Keep records of all communications
- Take before and after photos
- Leave honest reviews for good work
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