The right questions up front save you from the wrong contractor. Ask these — a trustworthy company will answer every one without hesitation.
- Are you licensed in Hawaiʻi, and what's your license number? (You can verify any contractor's license with the State of Hawaiʻi — DCCA — online license search. IBBUILDERS is BC-39795.)
- Are you insured — general liability and workers' compensation?
- Will I get a written scope and price before any work starts?
- Who's my point of contact, and how will I get updates? (Look for a real system — like a client portal — not "I'll call you sometime.")
- Do you pull the permits and handle inspections?
- What's the timeline — and what could change it?
- How are payments structured? (Milestone payments as work progresses — not a big lump sum upfront.)
- What's your warranty, in writing?
- Can I see past work or references?
- Who actually does the work — your team or subcontractors — and are they vetted and insured?
If a contractor dodges these — especially the license, insurance, and written-scope questions — keep looking.
Want straight answers to all ten? Call or text (808) 840-3193.