# Before you hire a contractor: checklist | Costolio

URL: https://costolio.com/home/checklists/before-you-hire/
Updated: 2026-11-02

# Before you hire a contractor

A short checklist before you hire a contractor, so you can compare quotes on the same terms.

## Your before you hire checklist

- Ask if the job needs a permit, and who pulls it.
- Check the contractor license on the [CSLB website](https://www.cslb.ca.gov/).
- Get at least two written quotes with line items.
- Ask what is not included: haul away, patching, painting, permit fees.
- California law limits a home improvement down payment to $1,000 or 10 percent of the contract price, whichever is less, including for swimming pools (Bus. & Prof. Code 7159). There is no exception for special-order materials. Payments after that cannot get ahead of the work done or materials delivered. Sources: [Bus. & Prof. Code 7159(d)(8)(C)](https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?sectionNum=7159.&lawCode=BPC), [CSLB: Home Improvement Contracts](https://www.cslb.ca.gov/consumers/hire_a_contractor/Home_Improvement_Contracts/What_Is_A_Contract.aspx).
- Get the start date, finish date and payment schedule in writing.

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