Contractor Hiring Checklist
Essential items to verify before hiring a construction contractor in Pennsylvania. Protect yourself and your investment.
Critical items: 0 of 11 completed
Licensing & Insurance
Verify PA Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration
CriticalRequest Certificate of Liability Insurance ($1M minimum)
CriticalVerify workers compensation coverage
CriticalAsk if contractor is bonded
RecommendedReferences & Reputation
Get at least 3 recent references (within 12 months)
CriticalActually call and speak with references
CriticalCheck online reviews (Google, BBB, Angi, HomeAdvisor)
ImportantVerify Better Business Bureau rating and complaints
ImportantReview portfolio of completed work
ImportantContract & Pricing
Get detailed written contract before any work begins
CriticalContract includes detailed scope of work
CriticalPayment schedule tied to milestones (not time)
CriticalChange order process clearly defined
ImportantLien waiver clause included
ImportantGet at least 3 competitive bids
ImportantWarranty terms clearly stated in contract
ImportantCommunication & Project
Single point of contact assigned
ImportantDetailed project timeline provided
ImportantConfirm who handles permits and inspections
CriticalUnderstand which work is subcontracted
ImportantDaily and final cleanup responsibilities defined
RecommendedWork hours and access agreed upon
RecommendedRed Flag Awareness
Beware of door-to-door solicitations
CriticalNever pay full amount upfront or cash only
CriticalQuestion bids significantly below others
ImportantVerify business has physical address
ImportantSkip the Guesswork
All contractors on PAConstruction.org are pre-verified for licensing, insurance, and quality work.
Priority Legend
PA Consumer Tips
- •PA law limits deposits to 1/3 of total contract
- •Written contracts required for work over $500
- •Verify HIC registration at attorneygeneral.gov
- •You have 3 days to cancel door-to-door contracts
- •Report fraud to PA Attorney General