Ask if they are licensed, bonded and insured they can send you proof if asked. This will insure that you are not responsible for accidents that may happen on your work site or work that is not done correctly. The contractor should carry all responsibility for his workers and their work. It will also let you know that they know what they are doing. Most states have strict standards for bonding, insuring and licensing. Also if you ever sell the home and you have not used a licensed contractor you may be liable for damages years after you sell it.

Ask the particular contractor for references of other customers they have had. Talk to these people to make sure you are getting what you want. Did the contractor do the work in a timely manner? Were they professional? Did they stay on budget or go over? These questions will help you decide if you want them to work on building your home. The contractors should stay within the time frame they bid for you. They should arrive in time to work and treat finished areas of your to be home with care. Also ask the previous customer if they have had any problems with the work that was done. This gives you a good idea of how well the contractors work holds up.

You will also want to know how many other jobs they will be doing along with yours. If they have more then a handful will they be able to carry out their obligation to your home building project? You may not want a contractor who has no jobs going but you don't want one that has too many.

Ask who they rely on for their work. Do they have employees or subcontractors? If they have subcontractors then how does it work? Does he insure all of them or do they have their own insurance? Who is responsible if accidents happen or the work done is below your expectations?

Ask the contactor you are interviewing if they will be working on the job or if they are only supervising. If they are only supervising then how long will they be on the jobsite weekly? Who do you get hold of for problems or questions if he is not around?

Ask if the business is a corporation or sole ownership. This will help if there are money issues. If the business is a corporation then there are other people involved that you may want to talk to also. Make sure you know where the business office is located and be aware of post office boxes.

The contractors should be open to answering any of these questions. If you feel they are being less then truthful or ignoring some of your questions do not hire them. If they ask for the full payment up front do not hire them. Asking these key things of your contractor will help insure a positive experience.