Why Vetting Matters
Hiring a contractor is a big decision. You're letting someone into your home, trusting them with your money, and counting on quality work. A few minutes spent checking a contractor's license and reading reviews carefully can save you thousands in headaches and dollars. This guide walks you through exactly how to do it.
Verify the License
A valid license is your first line of protection. It means the contractor has met your state's requirements and is accountable to a licensing board. Here's how to check:
Find Your State's Licensing Board
Every state handles contractor licensing differently. Search "[your state] contractor license" online, and you'll typically find a state department of professional regulation, home builders board, or similar agency. Most states offer a searchable database right on their official website.
Run the License Number
Ask the contractor for their license number before you meet. Enter it into your state's database and verify:
- The license is active and current (not expired or suspended)
- The name matches exactly with the person or business you're contacting
- The license class covers your project (general contractor, electrician, plumber, roofer, etc.)
- There are no serious complaints or disciplinary actions listed
Confirm Insurance and Bonding
Many states require contractors to carry liability insurance and bonding. While you're in the licensing database, note whether bonding is required for your project type. Ask the contractor directly for proof of current general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. A reputable contractor will have no problem providing copies of these documents—ask to see them before signing anything.
Read Reviews Strategically
Online reviews are valuable, but not all reviews are created equal. Here's how to read them like a pro:
Check Multiple Platforms
Don't rely on one site. Look for reviews on:
- Google Business profile
- Yelp
- HomeAdvisor
- Angie's List (now part of ANGI Homeservices)
- The Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- Nextdoor (neighborhood-level feedback)
Contractors with consistent ratings across platforms are more trustworthy than those who appear on only one site or show wild variations in scores.
Spot Fake or Biased Reviews
A perfect 5-star rating with only three reviews isn't meaningful. Look for a substantial number of reviews (at least 10–15) with a realistic spread. Be wary of:
- Too-good-to-be-true perfection – Legitimate contractors have some lower ratings
- Generic praise with no details – Real reviews mention specific work, timelines, or costs
- Sudden clusters of reviews – A batch of five-star reviews posted within days is suspicious
- Overly negative crusades – One angry review is normal; ten identical ones from "different people" warrant skepticism
Read the Full Picture
Focus on reviews from the last year or two (older ones may not reflect the contractor's current operation). Look for patterns in what people say:
- Were projects finished on time?
- Did the final cost match the estimate?
- Was communication clear and responsive?
- Did the contractor clean up and respect the homeowner's property?
- How did the contractor handle problems?
Three-star and four-star reviews often contain the most honest information. They acknowledge real strengths while noting honest drawbacks.
Pay Attention to How Contractors Respond
Even more telling than the reviews themselves is how a contractor responds to criticism. A professional will address negative feedback respectfully, offer solutions, and avoid getting defensive. If a contractor ignores complaints or responds with hostility, that's a red flag about how they'll treat you if something goes wrong.
Do Your Own Homework
Beyond licenses and reviews, take these extra steps:
Ask for References
Request the names and phone numbers of at least three recent clients. Call them and ask about their experience. Did the contractor show up on time? Was the work quality good? Would they hire them again?
Meet in Person
Professional contractors are happy to visit your home, discuss your project, and provide a detailed written estimate. If someone avoids meeting you or rushes through an estimate, move on.
Get Multiple Quotes
Obtain written estimates from at least two or three contractors. Compare not just price but what's included, timelines, and warranty terms. A suspiciously low bid often signals trouble ahead.
When You Find a Concern
If you discover that a contractor's license is expired, suspended, or has unresolved complaints, don't hire them. If you find numerous negative reviews with a pattern of incomplete work or cost overruns, trust that pattern. Better to keep looking than to learn the hard way.
If you're starting from scratch and want trusted recommendations, you can also find a vetted general contractor on Handyman.com, where contractors are pre-screened, making your research easier.
The Bottom Line
Vetting a contractor takes maybe an hour of your time. It's far faster than dealing with a botched project, unpaid liens, or a lawsuit. Check the license, read reviews thoughtfully, ask good questions, and trust your gut. A contractor who's transparent, responsive, and well-reviewed is someone you can hire with confidence.
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