7 Questions to Ask Contractors Before You Start Your Remodel

Hiring the right general remodeling contractor is one of the most important steps in any home improvement or custom home project. Whether you're remodeling a kitchen, updating the entire house, or building a new custom home in East Tennessee, it's essential to ask direct and informed questions before moving forward.

If you’re considering a high-end project in the Knoxville area, these 7 key questions to ask will help you choose the right contractor and protect your investment.

ASK ANY CONTRACTOR THESE QUESTIONS

These 7 questions help homeowners gain insight into a contractor's reliability, qualifications, and process. They can save you time, money, and stress by setting expectations early.

1. Can You Provide References?

Speaking with past clients is one of the best ways to understand what it's like to work with a contractor. Ask for recent references from homeowners with similar project scopes and budgets. Good follow-up questions include:

• Was the project completed on time?
• Did the final cost match the estimate?
• Would you work with this contractor again?

At Debuty Builders, Inc., we’re proud to share references from previous projects. Many of our clients return for additional work or refer us to friends and family. We also have a guide to help you plan a successful remodel. We're here to help you remodel your home into a space that fits you today and for years to come. 

2. Do You Have a Permit?

Permitting is essential for most remodeling or construction work. Ask whether your contractor will obtain all required permits, or if it’s something you’ll need to manage yourself.

We handle all permit applications and inspections for your project to ensure full compliance with local regulations. This keeps the job moving smoothly and avoids costly setbacks.

3. Is There a Job Warranty?

A written warranty gives you peace of mind that the contractor stands behind their work. Ask about the type of warranty offered, its duration, and what it covers.

We offer a solid warranty on all remodeling and custom home projects. Our clients know we’re committed to quality and long-term satisfaction. You want and need a team that stands behind their work.

4. What Is Your Communication Plan?

Communication is one of the most important aspects of any successful construction project. If your remodeler is poor at communication at the start, chances are that you'll never have a clear plan throughout the project.

Be sure to ask:

• Who will be your main point of contact?
• How often will you receive updates?
• What is the best way to get in touch if something changes?

We provide consistent communication throughout every project. Our clients are kept in the loop with clear schedules, regular updates, and easy access to our team.

5. ARE YOU LICENSED AND INSURED?

Before hiring any contractor, confirm that they have up-to-date general liability insurance, workers’ compensation coverage, and are properly licensed. This protects you in the event of accidents or property damage during construction. Our team is fully licensed and insured for every project we undertake. If you go with an uninsured remodeler, it can backfire in multiple ways. 

6. What Are the Financing Options?

Even if you plan to fund the project yourself, it’s important to understand all available options. Ask whether the contractor offers guidance on financing or works with preferred lenders. You have a variety of financing options when it comes to a remodel. What's best for you depends entirely on your preference and investment style. 

We provide clear budget planning and connect homeowners with trusted financing partners when needed. Our cost guide is a great resource for understanding what to expect based on project type and investment range.

7. What to Say When Reaching Out to a Contractor?

It can be tough to know what to say when you're trying to interview and hire someone for a service. When you're contacting a contractor for remodeling, try to be specific about:

• The type of project (kitchen remodel, whole-home renovation, custom build)
• Your location and desired timeline
• Your estimated budget
• Any special features or goals for the space

You can also ask, “Are you currently taking on projects like mine?” This helps you quickly understand if there’s availability and interest. We offer free consultations and welcome early conversations to help determine whether your project is a good fit.

Your Local Residential Remodeling Contractor

Working with a local residential remodeling contractor gives you the benefit of regional expertise. A builder familiar with Knoxville understands local codes, climate considerations, and vendor relationships that help keep your project on track.

Working With Debuty Builders, Inc.

Debuty Builders, Inc. specializes in high-quality custom homes, kitchen and bath remodels, and roofing projects across East Tennessee and surrounding areas. 

Our proven process keeps clients informed and confident at every step, from initial consultation and budgeting to construction and final walkthrough. We take the time to understand your goals, offer professional guidance, and bring your vision to life with clear timelines and reliable execution.

To see the quality of our work, explore our project portfolio, which features recent remodels, custom homes, and roofing transformations completed across East Tennessee.

Contact Us

Have a vision for your next project? Contact us to schedule your consultation. We’ll walk you through the process, discuss your goals and budget, and help you take the next step.