Embarking on a home remodeling or construction project in Los Angeles is an exciting venture, but the success of that project hinges almost entirely on one critical decision: choosing the right General Contractor. In a market as competitive and complex as L.A., where building codes are strict, specialized labor is in high demand, and the risk of costly delays is constant, settling for anything less than the best partner can derail your budget and your dream.
At Ground Up Builders, we believe in transparency and empowering our clients. A truly professional contractor welcomes rigorous questioning. To help you vet potential partners effectively, we’ve compiled 10 essential questions you must ask any contractor before signing on the dotted line for your Los Angeles home improvement project.
1. Are You Licensed, Bonded, and Insured in California?
This is non-negotiable and the very first question you should ask. Your contractor must hold an active license from the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Licensing ensures they meet minimum state standards for legal and professional qualifications.
- Licensed: Request their CSLB license number (a California license number does not contain letters) and verify its status online.
- Insured (General Liability): General liability insurance protects your property from damage caused by the work.
- Insured (Workers’ Compensation): This is critical. It protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property. Without it, you could be held financially responsible.
Why it matters in L.A.: Unlicensed contractors often offer lower bids but expose you to immense financial and legal risks, which is simply not worth it in a major construction market like Los Angeles.
2. How Much Experience Do You Have with Projects Similar to Mine in Los Angeles?
Experience is critical, but regional experience is paramount. A contractor who primarily works in Orange County might not be intimately familiar with the specific Historical Preservation Overlay Zones (HPOZs), hillside codes, or the precise permitting process of the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety (LADBS).
Ask to see their portfolio and request references for projects that match the scope of yours, whether it’s an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) construction, a major kitchen remodel, or a whole-house renovation. Their past work should demonstrate proficiency with L.A.’s architectural styles and regulatory environment.
3. Can You Provide At Least Three Recent Client References?
A reputable contractor will gladly provide a list of recent clients you can contact. When you call these references, ask detailed questions beyond mere satisfaction:
- Did the contractor communicate clearly and regularly?
- Was the project completed on the original timeline and budget?
- How did the contractor handle unexpected challenges (change orders, material delays, unforeseen damage)?
- Would you hire them again?
4. Who Will Be My Primary Point of Contact and How Often Will We Communicate?
For any large Los Angeles remodeling project, you will need a reliable line of communication. You might meet with the company owner initially, but who will be on-site daily?
A professional firm should assign a dedicated Project Manager or Foreman who is responsible for the day-to-day operations, scheduling, subcontractor coordination, and client updates. Define the communication cadence upfront, will it be weekly meetings, daily text updates, or scheduled phone calls?
5. How Do You Manage the Permitting and Inspection Process in L.A.?
The City of Los Angeles has notoriously complex permitting and inspection requirements. Your contractor should be the expert who handles this process entirely.
Ask if they:
- Will secure all necessary building permits and architectural sign-offs.
- Have established positive working relationships with local LADBS inspectors.
- Factor the time required for permits and inspections into the project schedule.
An experienced L.A. contractor anticipates potential hiccups and includes adequate time in the schedule for city bureaucracy, avoiding costly delays.
6. What Is Your Detailed Payment Schedule?
A clear, fair payment schedule protects both you and the contractor. Be wary of any contractor who asks for more than a small percentage deposit upfront (typically 10% or $\$1,000$, whichever is less, as per California law, though larger commercial projects may vary).
Payments should be tied to completed milestones, such as the finish of demolition, framing inspection, electrical rough-in, or final completion. Never pay the final balance until the entire project is completed to your satisfaction, all final inspections are approved, and you have received a lien waiver.
7. What Is Included in the Contract, and What Constitutes a “Change Order?”
A detailed, written contract is essential. It should clearly outline the Scope of Work, the specific materials to be used (down to the model and brand), the timeline, and the total cost.
Critically, discuss the procedure for Change Orders. A change order occurs when you alter the project scope (e.g., deciding to move a wall) or when unforeseen conditions arise (e.g., discovering termite damage). A good contractor will have a clear, written policy for change orders that details how they affect the cost and timeline before work proceeds.
8. What Kind of Warranty Do You Offer on Your Workmanship?
A contractor who stands behind their work will offer a warranty. Most contractors offer a one-year warranty on workmanship. Ask for this warranty to be included in writing in the contract.
Also, ask about the warranties on materials and fixtures, as these are often covered by the manufacturer, not the contractor. Knowing the warranty terms provides peace of mind long after the project is complete.
9. How Do You Ensure Quality Control with Subcontractors?
General contractors rarely perform all the work themselves; they hire specialty subcontractors (plumbers, electricians, roofers, etc.). Ask if their subcontractors are also licensed and insured, and if the contractor has long-standing relationships with reliable tradespeople.
The contractor is ultimately responsible for the quality of all work performed. They should have a process in place to supervise and hold all subcontractors accountable to the highest standard of craftsmanship.
10. What Safety Protocols Do You Have in Place on the Job Site?
Safety protects the workers, the neighbors, and your family. Ask about their liability coverage and worker safety practices. The job site should be kept clean, organized, and secure at the end of each day. This question demonstrates your commitment to responsibility and ensures a professional work environment.
Your Trusted Partner in Los Angeles Remodeling
Choosing a General Contractor is the biggest factor in determining your project’s success. By asking these ten essential questions, you ensure you are vetting for expertise, financial integrity, and a professional track record, all vital qualities for construction in Los Angeles.
At Ground Up Builders, we pride ourselves on being able to answer these questions with confidence and clarity, built on years of serving the Southern California community.
Ready to partner with a contractor you can trust? Contact us today for a professional consultation on your next home remodeling or improvement project.