01 / Licensing & permits

Verify permits and inspections.

Building projects in Grand County require applicable permits and inspections. Contact the inspection department in your jurisdiction to confirm requirements, procedures and fees.

Check licensing and registration.

Ask your contractor for proof of any current license or registration required by the Grand County Building Department or other applicable jurisdiction.

02 / Insurance & safety

Request proof of insurance.

Ask whether the builder carries sufficient workers’ compensation and general liability insurance and whether builders’ risk coverage is included. Request current insurance certificates and clarify who is responsible for construction-related risks.

Ask about jobsite safety.

Does the builder have an established safety program and provide employee training? A commitment to safety reflects professionalism and may help reduce construction-related risks and costs.

03 / Experience & reputation

Check references.

Speak with previous clients and trade partners. Ask about communication, timeliness, follow-through and whether they would work with the builder again.

Research their reputation.

Check the Better Business Bureau for any history of unresolved complaints. Does the builder have a permanent business location and established relationships with local banks and suppliers?

Consider long-term stability.

How long has the builder been in business? Will they be available after construction to address warranty issues? Ask about their standard warranty duration and coverage.

04 / Communication & planning

Find the right fit.

You’ll work closely with your builder throughout construction and potentially after moving in. Are they approachable? Do they listen to your needs and communicate clearly?

Ask about project scheduling.

Does the builder use a project schedule to coordinate work, plan ahead and help minimize unexpected delays?

05 / Bids & contracts

Compare bids carefully.

If you obtain multiple estimates, make sure you’re comparing similar scopes of work, materials and labor. The lowest bid isn’t necessarily the best value.

Understand the contract.

Your contract should clearly describe the scope of work, price, payment milestones and warranties. Review the terms before signing.

Be cautious about payment demands.

Be wary of contractors who request full payment or cash before work begins or use high-pressure sales tactics.

06 / Quality & training

Discuss building standards.

Does the builder simply meet minimum state and local code requirements, or do they offer construction methods and materials that exceed them?

Ask about continuing education.

Do employees and trade partners participate in training to maintain their skills and stay current with industry trends and requirements?

Review completed and active projects.

Ask to see examples of the builder’s work. Evaluate workmanship and materials, and ask whether they have a quality-control process.