Top Questions to Ask Your Contractor Before Starting Work
Hiring a contractor for your farm renovation, rural build, or home improvement project is a big decision. The contractor you choose will directly affect your project’s quality, budget, and timeline. Before signing a contract, it’s essential to ask the right questions. Doing so ensures you’re working with someone who is qualified, reliable, and transparent.
Here are the top questions to ask your contractor before starting work, to protect your investment and achieve the results you’re after.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
The first step is to confirm that your contractor holds the proper licences and insurance. In New South Wales, for example:
Builders must be licensed with NSW Fair Trading
Contractors should have public liability insurance and, where relevant, Home Building Compensation Fund (HBCF) cover
This ensures legal compliance and protects you in case of accidents or defects.
2. Can You Provide References or Past Project Examples?
Reputable contractors should readily provide references or photos of similar projects. Speaking with past clients or reviewing case studies allows you to assess:
Quality of workmanship
Reliability and communication
Ability to stay within time and budget
3. What Is the Project Timeline?
Understanding the timeline prevents delays and helps with planning. Ask about:
Estimated start and completion dates
Milestones and phases of work
How weather, material delays, or subcontractors may affect the schedule
4. How Will Variations Be Managed?
Changes often occur during construction. It’s critical to know how variations will be documented and costed. Ensure:
All changes are in writing
You approve costs before work proceeds
There’s a clear process for disputes
5. Who Will Supervise the Work On-Site?
Sometimes the contractor you hire delegates work to subcontractors. Ask:
Who will be the site supervisor?
How often will they be present?
What is the communication process for updates or issues?
6. What Warranties and Guarantees Do You Provide?
Good contractors stand behind their work. Confirm:
Warranties on labour and materials
Defect liability periods under the Home Building Act
Procedures for resolving workmanship issues after completion
7. What Are the Payment Terms?
Clear payment terms avoid disputes. Discuss:
Deposit requirements (under NSW law, deposits must not exceed 10% for work over $20,000)
Progress payment schedule tied to milestones
Final payment due only after satisfactory completion
8. How Do You Handle Safety and Compliance?
Safety is essential, especially on farms and rural properties. Ensure your contractor:
Follows Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations
Prepares Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) for high-risk activities
Maintains a clean and safe site for workers and property owners
9. Will You Provide a Written Contract?
Never proceed without a written contract. A proper contract should outline:
Scope of work
Materials and specifications
Payment schedule
Dispute resolution procedures
This protects both parties and ensures accountability.
0. How Will You Keep Me Updated?
Strong communication is key. Ask how your contractor will provide updates:
Weekly site meetings
Written progress reports
Photos or digital updates for remote owners
Conclusion
Asking the right questions before starting work with a contractor is the best way to protect your investment and avoid surprises. By confirming licensing, insurance, timelines, warranties, and safety measures, you’ll ensure your project runs smoothly and meets expectations.
Whether you’re planning a farm renovation in Tamworth, a rural upgrade in Armidale, or a residential build in the New England region, being prepared with these questions sets you up for success.
