The single biggest reason home renovation projects go sideways is the homeowner hired the wrong contractor. Here's the checklist we run every Pro-Connect partner through — use it on anyone you're considering, even if they came from a referral.
Must-haves before you sign anything
- Active Texas license for the trade (TDLR for HVAC, electrical, plumbing; city for general construction).
- Current general liability insurance — at least $1M, certificate sent directly from their insurer.
- Workers' comp if they have employees on your job.
- Three recent local references you can actually call.
- A written, itemized contract — not a one-line estimate.
Red flags — walk away
- Asks for more than 10% down (or anything over $1,000) before work starts.
- Cash-only, no contract, no permit.
- Pressures you to decide today.
- Can't show proof of insurance in writing.
- Negative recent reviews with a pattern (no-shows, scope creep, abandoned jobs).
Questions worth asking
Ask who will actually be on your jobsite day-to-day — many contractors sell the job themselves and hand it off to a crew you never met. Ask how change orders are handled in writing. Ask what their warranty is on labor (1 year is standard, 2 is great).
Skip the vetting, we did it for you
Every Pro-Connect contractor is license-verified, insurance-verified, and background-checked before they're allowed to receive a single lead. Request a quote and we'll match you with the right pro for your project.