Hiring A Siding Contractor: Contractor Checklist

Siding can dramatically change the look of your home. It can increase your home’s curb appeal and resale value, while also protecting your home from the outside elements. Finding a reliable and trustworthy siding contractor is your first step in upgrading or replacing your siding.

At Modernize, we frequently speak to homeowners about their home improvement projects. In our recent interviews, 90 percent of homeowners requested a checklist to help them find and vet contractors. Modernize now offers homeowners a free, digital Contractor Checklist as a simple, step-by-step guide to assist with your siding project.

How to Find a Reliable Siding Contractor

If you are looking to improve the outside of your home —or replace damage caused by weather, rot, or warping— a trustworthy siding contractor is critical. You will need to find a contractor you can trust— a local professional who can get the job done quickly:

• Ask trusted sources (friends, family, and neighbors) for a referral.
• Contact your local Better Business Bureau.
• Connect with trusted siding contractors in your area with Modernize.

Find Local Contractors

Vet Your Siding Contractors

It’s important to find a reliable siding contractor so that your repair or replacement can be done as quickly as possible. To determine the best professional fit for your siding project:

• Request quotes from three to four contractors in your area.
• Visit the website of each contractor.
  • Is it updated and professional-looking?
• Explore the customer reviews for each contractor.
  • Are they mostly positive? Consider negative reviews and responses.
• Ask each siding contractor on the phone the following questions:
  • How long have you been in business?
  • How much experience do you have with siding repair or installation?
  • What is your project estimate?
  • Can you provide a list of references?
  • Can you provide proof of insurance for personal liability, worker’s compensation, and property damage coverage?

Meet With Your Top Siding Contractors

After obtaining three or four written estimates and vetting each of your potential contractors, meet in person with your top contractors to review project-specific details and expectations. We have created a free worksheet to help homeowners compare contractors. Be sure to discuss the following with each contractor:

• Ask for proof of insurance, which should provide their insurance company name, policy number, and policy limits.
• Discuss who will manage warranty details and responsibilities.
• Make sure to get a fixed price before signing a contract.

Be Aware of Warning Signs

Unfortunately, there is a small percentage of contractors who are not honest professionals. The best way to avoid scams is to choose a local, trusted siding contractor. You can confirm this by checking their physical business address and validating their licensing.

Here are additional warning signs to keep in mind:

• Avoid contractors who request the entire project cost, or a large cash deposit, up front.
• Avoid anyone who pressures you to sign a contract immediately.
• Be wary of any outliers in your quotes. All siding estimates should be relatively similar unless the material type is significantly different.

Find Local Contractors

Prepare for Your Final Siding Contractor Meeting

At the final meeting, there are a few steps to go over before the siding contractor begins your project.

• Reconfirm your initial quote.
• Agree upon a payment plan.
• Obtain a paper trail of the following:
  • Your contract
  • Project plans
  • Order changes
  • Bills and invoices
  • Proof of insurance and/or permitting, and
  • Contractor correspondence

The Modernize Contractor Checklist will help you vet a trusted contractor, so you can relax knowing your siding project is in good hands. You can access the interactive checklist by visiting the Modernize Homeowner Portal or by downloading it here.