Before You Hire Someone

Before you accept a quote, pay a deposit, approve extra work, or make final payment, HouseFixHer helps you slow down and ask better questions.

Before you say yes You do not need to know everything about repairs or renovations. You just need enough information to feel prepared, ask clear questions, and avoid being rushed into a decision.

Quote Check

Before you accept a quote

A clear quote should help you understand what the contractor is offering and what you are agreeing to.

Is the quote written down?
Does it clearly describe the work being done?
Are materials, labour, cleanup, and disposal included?
Does it explain what could cost extra?
Does it include a start date, estimated timeline, and payment schedule?

Deposit Check

Before you pay a deposit

A deposit should not feel rushed or unclear. Make sure the payment terms are written down before money changes hands.

How much is the deposit?
What exactly does the deposit cover?
Is any part refundable if the project does not proceed?
When is the next payment due?
What happens if the job is delayed or changed?

Permit Check

Before work begins

Some projects may need permits, inspections, licensed trades, or code-related work. Ask early so there are fewer surprises later.

Does this project require a permit?
Who is responsible for getting the permit?
Are licensed trades required?
Will inspections be needed?
Could this affect insurance, resale, or safety?

Materials Check

Before you approve materials

Two quotes can look similar but include very different materials. Ask what quality, brand, type, or grade is included.

What materials are included in the quote?
Are fixtures, finishes, paint, flooring, or hardware included?
Who chooses the materials?
What happens if the selected materials are unavailable?
Are cheaper or more durable options available?

Timeline Check

Before the schedule is agreed to

Timelines can change, but a good contractor should be willing to explain the expected steps and possible delays.

When can the work start?
How long is it expected to take?
What could delay the project?
Will someone be working every day or only on certain days?
How will updates be communicated?

Final Payment Check

Before final payment

Final payment should happen after you have had a chance to look over the completed work and ask about anything unfinished or unclear.

Has the work been completed as agreed?
Have you walked through the project with the contractor?
Are cleanup and disposal complete?
Do you have receipts, warranty details, and care instructions?
Are any unfinished items written down with a plan to complete them?

Red flags to slow down for Be careful if someone pressures you to decide immediately, refuses to provide a written quote, asks for unclear payment, avoids questions, dismisses your concerns, or will not explain what is included.

Good contractor green flags

HouseFixHer is not anti-contractor. Good contractors often make the process feel clearer, not more confusing.

They explain the work in simple language.
They are willing to put details in writing.
They answer questions without making you feel foolish.
They are clear about what is included and what may cost extra.
They do not pressure you into an instant decision.

Your calm next step Before you say yes, write down your questions, take photos, save all quotes and messages, and give yourself permission to pause if something feels unclear.

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Questions or feedback?

Send us a note at support@housefixher.com.