Hiring a contractor isn’t just about price and availability—it’s about trust, skill, and long-term results. Whether you’re remodeling a kitchen in Bend, upgrading your bathroom in Redmond, or planning a full renovation in Sisters, choosing the right contractor will make or break your project.
Asking the right questions before signing any contract is your best defense against costly mistakes, delays, or subpar workmanship. Here are five essential questions Central Oregon homeowners should always ask, along with the answers you should expect from a reputable contractor.
Question 1: Are You Licensed, Bonded, and Insured in Oregon?
A contractor must be licensed by the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB). Licensing ensures they’ve passed required exams, maintain liability insurance, and are bonded to protect consumers financially.
What to Look For:
- A current CCB license number (verify it here)
- Proof of general liability insurance
- Bond information in writing
Cornerstone Residential is fully licensed, bonded, and insured throughout Central Oregon. We adhere to all state regulations and provide documentation upfront.
Question 2: Can You Provide Local References from Past Clients?
A reputable contractor should have a track record of completed projects and happy homeowners—especially in your area. If they’ve worked in similar climates and neighborhoods, it’s a strong sign they understand local codes, permitting, and construction needs unique to Central Oregon.
What to Ask:
- “Can I speak with at least 2–3 recent clients in Central Oregon?”
- “Do you have a project gallery or online reviews I can check?”
You can view some of our recent work and testimonials at Cornerstone Residential Remodeling Services.
Question 3: What Is the Estimated Timeline and What Happens if There Are Delays?
Remodeling projects often take longer than expected due to material shortages, weather delays, or permit issues. Ask the contractor how they plan for delays and keep you informed throughout the process.
Red Flags to Watch:
- No written schedule
- Vague answers about project phases
- No plan for communicating changes
At Cornerstone Residential, we provide written timelines with realistic milestones. Our Central Oregon team keeps you updated from start to finish.
Question 4: Will You Handle Permits and Inspections?
If your project requires permits—and many remodels do—your contractor should manage that process. In fact, trying to skip permits is a major red flag that could lead to fines, uninsurable damage, or resale problems down the line.
According to the FTC, all permit-related responsibilities should be clearly defined in your contract.
What to Expect:
- “Yes, we’ll take care of all necessary permits.”
- “We’ll also coordinate any required inspections with local authorities.”
Cornerstone Residential handles all local permits and ensures your remodel meets Central Oregon’s building codes.
Question 5: What Is Included in the Contract and Payment Terms?
Never accept verbal agreements or handshakes. Your contract should include:
- A detailed scope of work
- Itemized estimate (materials, labor, permit fees, etc.)
- Payment schedule tied to milestones
- Start and finish dates
- Warranty or guarantee details
Avoid These Warning Signs:
- Demanding full payment upfront (Oregon law limits down payments to 10% or $1,000—source)
- No written contract
- Ambiguous language around responsibilities
At Cornerstone Residential, our contracts are comprehensive, transparent, and easy to understand—because peace of mind starts with clarity.
Bonus: What Else You Should Ask
While the top five questions are essential, you might also want to ask:
- “Do you have workers’ compensation coverage for your team?”
- “Who will be supervising the work on-site each day?”
- “Do you offer post-completion support or a workmanship warranty?”
Why Central Oregon Homeowners Trust Cornerstone Residential
With over a decade of experience across Bend, Redmond, and beyond, Cornerstone Residential is the trusted name in licensed remodeling and renovation. We take the time to answer every question thoroughly—because your home deserves quality, not shortcuts.
Our remodeling services include:
- Kitchens, bathrooms, and full-home renovations
- Code-compliant construction with permits and inspections
- Experienced, background-checked professionals
- Transparent pricing and dependable scheduling
Learn more about our Remodeling Services in Central Oregon or Contact Us Today to schedule your consultation.
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