Jumping into a remodel without asking the right questions is like starting a road trip without a map. Whether you’re planning a new kitchen, bathroom, basement, or full addition, knowing what to ask before you sign the dotted line could save you tens of thousands of dollars — and months of stress.

At the Trusted Home Experts Alliance (THEA), we help Des Moines-area homeowners make informed, confident decisions before they invest. Here are the 10 essential questions every homeowner should ask before starting a remodeling project — plus the context behind why they matter.

1. What’s the full scope of work — and what’s excluded?

Don’t just ask what’s included — ask what’s not. A quality contractor should be able to present a clear scope that outlines:

• Demolition
• Materials and labor
• Electrical, plumbing, HVAC
• Finishes and fixtures
• Site cleanup

If landscaping, permit fees, or appliance installation aren’t included, you’ll want to know upfront.

2. Are permits and inspections included in the project?

In the Des Moines metro, most remodeling projects require permits — especially if they involve structural, electrical, or plumbing changes. The contractor should:

• Pull necessary permits
• Coordinate inspections
• Factor permit costs into the bid

Skipping permits can result in fines or failed resale inspections later.

3. How are change orders handled — and what typically causes them?

Change orders happen. But the process should be transparent. Ask:

• How are changes approved?
• Will I get a written quote before agreeing?
• How much do change orders typically impact budget and schedule?

Contractors with a strong planning process — like those in THEA’s network — reduce surprises by getting every detail dialed in before build starts.

4. Do you use fixed or variable pricing?

Fixed pricing (also called lump sum or guaranteed) means your total cost is locked in. Variable pricing (cost-plus) bills you for time and materials plus a markup. Make sure you understand:

• Which pricing method your contractor uses
• How overages or savings are communicated
• If there are allowances for fixtures, cabinetry, etc.

Fixed pricing is typically better for homeowners who want predictability and protection from cost creep.

5. What quality controls are in place during construction — not just at the end?

It’s not enough to “walk the job” when it’s finished. Trustworthy contractors have systems for:

• Site inspections
• Photo documentation
• Subcontractor accountability
• Punch list resolution

Zenith Design + Build, for example, uses project management software and weekly jobsite reviews to stay ahead of issues — not chase them after the fact.

6. Who will be my point of contact — and how is communication handled?

Poor communication is the #1 complaint in remodeling. Clarify:

• Who do I contact with questions?
• How often will I receive updates?
• Do you use project management software or group texts?

Clear roles and regular communication prevent delays and build trust.

7. Are you licensed, insured, and bonded in Iowa?

In Iowa, contractors are required to register with the state and carry liability insurance. Ask for:

• State contractor registration number
• Proof of general liability and workers’ comp insurance
• Bonding (if applicable for large projects)

If a contractor hesitates to share this info, that’s a deal-breaker.

8. What happens if the timeline slips?

Delays happen — but you need to know:

• What could delay the project?
• How are delays communicated?
• Will I receive a written schedule?
• Are there penalties or incentives?

Ask for a start and completion date — in writing.

9. How do payments work?

Be wary of large upfront payments. A trustworthy contractor will break payments into phases:

• Design/deposit
• Start of construction
• Progress milestones
• Final walk-through

Never pay more than 10-20% upfront unless you’ve already received significant services (like plans or selections).

10. What’s your warranty and follow-up policy?

Every quality remodeler should provide a written warranty. Ask:

• What’s covered (labor, materials, workmanship)?
• How long is the warranty?
• How do I request warranty service?

At THEA, we encourage working with contractors who offer 1–2 year labor warranties and provide post-project check-ins.

Bonus Question: Can I speak to past clients?

Speaking directly with past clients gives you unfiltered insight. Ask for 2–3 references from similar projects in your area (e.g., Ankeny, West Des Moines, Grimes). Ask them:

• Did the project finish on time and on budget?
• How was the communication?
• Would you hire them again?

How THEA Helps

THEA offers planning tools and checklists to help homeowners ask the right questions at the right time. Our goal is to reduce anxiety and bring clarity to a complex process. We also provide:

• Free homeowner planning sessions
• Contractor comparison tools
• Remodel readiness checklists

Final Takeaway

Asking these 10+ questions before your remodel starts puts you in control. You don’t have to be an expert — you just need the right tools, the right contractor, and a partner like THEA to help you get started.