Homeowner’s Checklist

 Qualify your Contractor

Make sure your contractor is licensed in Michigan, follow this link to verify.

Verify a License for any Contractor in Michigan

    • Michigan law requires an “Alterations and Modifications” license for minor home improvement and a “Residential Builders” license for major renovations and to pull permits.

Insurance is a must and in Michigan it’s the law.

Ask to have a “Proof of Insurance” sent directly to you from their insurance provider

If they use subcontractors, verify that the subs are properly licensed and insured (on their own)

Prove their past experience

    • Ask for references from past customers, not relatives.
    • If available, review pictures of their work or visit their website
    • Also ask if all the pictures on their site are actually their work

Consider hiring a third-party professional agency to verify this information for you, if you have any concerns.

Contractorsyoucantrust.com is one example of a membership for contractors that requires a comprehensive audit process before being allowed on their site.