Undertaking a renovation or building project is an exciting journey—but hiring the right general contractor is critical to its success. At Amsted, we guide homeowners through major transformations like bathroom remodels, home additions, and kitchen overhauls. To start your partnership on a foundation of trust, transparency, and quality results, here are the five [essential questions you need to ask]
1. Is the Contractor Fully Licensed, Insured & Bonded?
Before any money changes hands, verify that your contractor holds proper licensing, insurance, and bonding. A licensed contractor is recognized by local authorities and obligated to follow safety and building standards. Insurance—especially liability and workers’ compensation—protects you from being financially responsible if accidents occur. Bonding adds an additional layer of protection, ensuring the work will be completed even if the contractor defaults.
At Amsted, our team is fully licensed across all municipalities we serve, including Toronto, Mississauga, Oakville, and beyond. We carry comprehensive WSIB coverage, general liability, and bonding. Before work begins, we’ll provide documentation that gives you confidence and peace of mind.
2. Can You Show References & Completed Projects?
Any reputable general contractor should be eager to showcase their past work and connect you with satisfied clients. Request site visits or at least be able to view a detailed portfolio including kitchens, bathrooms, basement renovations, home additions—not just before-and-after photos, but insights into timelines, budgets, and problem-solving approaches.
Ask former clients:
- “Were you satisfied with the final outcome?”
- “How did the contractor manage changes or unexpected issues?”
- “Did the project stay on schedule and within budget?”
At Amsted, we not only publish detailed galleries of our work but also facilitate client connections whenever possible. Our satisfied homeowners often highlight our responsiveness and meticulous project management.
3. What Is Your Communication & Project Management Style?
Renovations blend science with art—but they’re also a coordination challenge. Your general contractor should clearly outline how communication works:
- Who is your main point of contact: the owner, project manager, or site foreman?
- How often can you expect updates—daily, weekly, or milestone-based?
- How will changes be managed, documented, and approved?
Amsted uses a cloud-based project-management platform that allows you to see schedules, track progress, inspect site notes, and upload photos. Weekly summary reports keep everything transparent. This level of clarity helps minimize surprises and keeps you engaged throughout the build.
4. Will You Provide a Detailed Written Estimate & Scope?
A solid renovation starts with a clear financial roadmap. Your estimate should include:
- Line-item breakdown for materials, labor, permits, disposal, and design fees.
- Definitions of allowances versus selections (e.g., “vanity: $4,500 allowance”).
- Contingency for unpredictable issues like hidden water damage.
- Formal change order process outlining costs before changes are implemented.
Amsted provides thorough proposals that include priorities, deliverables, dates, and pricing. A defined change-order system ensures any project adjustments stay on track—shielding you from unexpected costs and delays.
5. Who Manages Permits & Inspections?
Major renovations and structural changes typically require permits. Your contractor should automatically factor this into their project scope, rather than expecting you to research and obtain permits information yourself. Ask:
- Which permits are required for my project?
- Who applies for them, pays the fees, and schedules inspections?
- Can you provide copies of these documents to keep in your records?
Amsted handles every permit application and inspection process from start to finish. We ensure each stage—structural, plumbing, electrical—is compliant and inspected by the municipality. Contractors who don’t manage permits may expose you to project delays or unwelcome fines.
Why These 5 Questions Matter
Asking these questions isn’t about playing hardball—it’s about setting clear expectations and choosing a contractor who takes them just as seriously as you do. These point the way toward:
- Transparency: You know what you’re paying for and why.
- Responsibility: The contractor is accountable for compliance and performance.
- Communication: You never feel left in the dark about project progress.
- Peace of Mind: You won’t face surprise costs or legal complications.
Without these safeguards, you risk:
- Unfinished or low-quality work.
- Delays from improper or missing permits.
- Unexpected additional charges mid-project.
- Stress from poor communication or shifting expectations.
Sample Pre-Hiring Checklist
Use this checklist to evaluate each contractor:
- ✅ Licensed, insured & bonded
- ✅ References & portfolio provided
- ✅ Clear communication protocols detailed
- ✅ Line-item estimate & defined change orders included
- ✅ Permits & inspections are handled in-house
Contractors who score well in each area are more likely to deliver on time, on budget, and with quality workmanship.
Amsted’s Commitment
Here’s how Amsted embodies each of these critical qualities:
- Credentials & Insurance: We maintain full licensure and WSIB compliance across Toronto, Peel, York, and Durham Regions.
- Showcase Work: Our digital portfolio includes bathroom renovations, kitchens, home additions, and full home refreshes, backed by client testimonials.
- Project Transparency: A dedicated manager and daily/weekly updates keep you informed through every phase.
- Comprehensive Estimate: Our proposals spell out costs and selections, backed by contingency planning.
- Permit Handling: We take responsibility for all permitting and inspection coordination, ensuring regulatory compliance on your behalf.
By focusing on these five essential criteria, you’re not just picking a contractor—you’re choosing a reliable partner who understands construction and client-centric service.
Next Steps: What to Do Before You Hire
Here’s how to prepare:
- Research local GCs and gather a shortlist of 2–3 names.
- Arrange consultations and ask these five questions during the meeting.
- Request written estimates with clear scopes of work and expect consistent follow-up communication.
- Clarify timelines, payment schedules, and any warranty or post-completion service.
- Compare offers with your priorities in mind: communication, cost breakdowns, and credibility should lead the way.
When you’re hiring a contractor, start with transparency—not assumptions. At Amsted, we believe starting with the right questions builds successful projects—and stronger communities.
Your Renovation Journey Begins Here
Asking the right questions is more than vetting—it’s about ensuring your vision is protected, budgets are respected, and timelines honored. With these five essentials as your guide, you’re well on your way to hiring a contractor who truly delivers.
Ready to discuss your next project or see how Amsted applies these principles in action? Visit https://amsted.ca today for a no-obligation consultation—and experience clarity, craftsmanship, and confidence.
Build Better—The Right Way
Great renovations don’t happen by chance. They happen when expectations are aligned, accountability is clear, and your contractor earns your trust from day one. Start smart. Start strong. Build better.