Guide
What should you ask before hiring a local pro?
Before you hire a local pro, ask five things: are you licensed and insured for this work, what is the full price in writing, what exactly is included, when can you start and finish, and what happens if something needs fixing afterwards. The answers tell you more than any review.
Licence and insurance first
Electrical, plumbing and most building work need a state licence. Ask for the number and check it on the state's lookup page. Ask whether they carry liability insurance in case something is damaged.
Get the price in writing
A written estimate should say what is included, what is not, and what would make the price change. Be wary of a large payment before any work starts.
Agree on what happens after
Ask how long they stand behind the work and how you reach them if something fails. A good pro answers this without hesitating.
Quick answers
How many quotes should I get?
Two or three for a large job. For small jobs one fair, written quote from a checked pro is usually enough.
Is the cheapest quote the best?
Not always. Compare what each one includes; a low price that leaves out materials or cleanup is not the low price it looks.