A contractor's services can be indispensable if you've decided to build a new house or planned a large-scale renovation.

All clients seek a legitimate and reputable professional they can trust with this important project.

Signs he'll get the job done

• Clean record

• Responsive and punctual

• Written contracts accompany all agreements

• Listens to your ideas

• Provides written estimates

Signs he probably won't

• License abnormalities

• Lawsuits have been filed against him

• Not enthusiastic about permits, zoning, and building codes

• Habitually late or doesn't return calls

Use online services

Some online matching services can be a reliable source of information. They apply algorithms to connect contractors and customers on a project basis.

There are also other tools that will let you find people online easily. They scour the web for information about contractors, and you can use them to verify licenses and read customer reviews.

When walking around the neighbourhood, look for signs advertising contractor services in the area. It says a lot when someone is comfortable putting their name on their work.

When they are willing to put up a sign with their contact information, it means they're proud of what they do.

Ask for recommendations

Neighbours, friends, and relatives can be trusted sources of information. If you know someone who finished a similar project recently, ask which contractor they used and if they were satisfied.

The previous customer has already done their due diligence, and you're taking advantage of that fact. Someone who feels comfortable recommending a specialized or general contractor communicates the latter's value.

Of course, this is no guarantee the person will be a good fit for your project, so don't trust them blindly.

Check the registers

Legitimate contractors pay to be listed with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). It never hurts to check this register to see if your contractor of choice is on it. Another reason they might be is if there was a complaint about their work.

In Canada, court proceedings are registered with the Canadian Legal Information Institute (CANLII). If your prospective contractor appears there, it means he's been involved in some court case, but not necessarily a job-related one. A divorce or car accident will also appear there.

Ask for references

Ask professionals you've worked with if your neighbours and friends can't make suggestions. Your banker, broker, or attorney might have had contact with a contractor.

They have an incentive to recommend a good professional because they want you to be satisfied as their client.

Features of a professional contractor

The contractor should have a clean record with local and state boards as a bare minimum. You can see uncovered claims on their bond on local and state licensing platforms.

When you first meet them, they should listen carefully and pay attention to what you're saying about your project. While they shouldn't necessarily agree with everything, they should offer constructive suggestions.

They should be open about building codes, zoning, permits, and other regulatory issues because they are paramount to renovation or remodelling work.

The contractor can make a non-binding estimate, but all price estimates have to be in writing.

Features of an unprofessional contractor

It's recommended to do a background check on anyone you're thinking of hiring for significant work. If concerning information appears, don't ignore it.

They might be late or miss one appointment, but if they don't return calls or show up late often, they will keep doing that after you've hired them.

Beware of people who badmouth former clients, merchants, employees, or subcontractors, especially early on in your interactions with them.

Do not proceed with them if they are unwilling to sign a contract.

Define your project

You might find a true professional, and they still won't get the job done. How is that possible? You didn't think the project through. You weren't clear on what you wanted before you contacted them, or you didn't know what you wanted at all.

Make sure you work this out before you even start looking, and ask the contractor if your project is feasible.