Home renovations and remodeling are more popular now than they have been in years. We’re home more, working at home more and spending more leisurely time at home.

And with that, we’re improving where we spend the most time with our family. Maybe you need more space. Maybe you need to update. When it’s your home, you want to make sure it’s done right, done well, and you have chosen the best contractors to do the work.

How do you know you’ve chosen the right company? What questions should you be asking? While you’re interviewing (yes, you can interview several companies and get several quotes), look for these red flags or warning signs to protect yourself now so you don’t have headaches later.

Red Flags! Warning! Warning!

– The contractors you’re considering do not have a contractor’s license.

Note: Most towns and villages require contractors to be approved before commencing work on homes in the area. Check with your local town or village to see if the contractor you’re considering is approved to work.

– They do not present a certificate of insurance.

– The contractor does not have a local office and phone, office address, or post office box. Just a cell phone doesn’t count.

– They do not provide references or are hesitant to provide them. Ask, can I drive by and see some of the work you’ve done?

– They shouldn’t insist on taking only cash, no checks. If you pay cash, there is no record of your payments and no recourse if they demand payment.

– Contracts: Always have the scope of work in writing in detail, and when it will be completed. Be wary if they are not willing to sign a contract before work begins and that they require no paperwork.

– If their estimate is vague or incomplete, press to make sure everything is listed, and specifically what is not included. Pass on them if they are unwilling to be upfront.

– If you receive bids that are far below the others, ask yourself, What are they not including? Are they cutting costs?

Ask these questions upfront:

– Are you willing to sign payment waivers?

– Do you have Worker’s Compensation & Liability Insurance? This protects you as the homeowner if the workers get hurt on your property.

– Will they add you as additionally insured? When you, as the homeowner, are listed additionally insured, this protects you if someone working on your property gets hurt, you are not liable.

– How long do you warranty your work?

Knowing what questions to ask and what things to look for can be overwhelming. And sometimes we don’t know what we don’t know. Hopefully, this list will get you started thinking like a contractor (because that is what you will be) and not just a homeowner.

At least for the time being. And one final suggestion. Even if a contractor is a referral, do your own due diligence. Before you sign with any contractor, make sure you contact the Better Business Bureau and check for any complaints or outstanding lawsuits. Also, Insurancefraud.org is a great resource for further information.

Paul and Roseanne Frank are owners of Home Renovation Consultants, an East Hills consulting service for the homeowner and their renovation projects. We’re there when you need us! You can contact them for a free consultation. HomeRenoConsultants.com or 516-625-8086.