Hiring flooring contractors isn’t just about choosing someone who can lay tiles or hardwood. It’s about ensuring your investment lasts, looks great, and aligns with your lifestyle and budget. In 2025, homeowners are more informed and selective than ever. Before you sign a contract, asking the right questions can save you time, money, and stress. 

Why Asking the Right Questions Matters 

The flooring in your home takes a beating — from heavy foot traffic to spilled drinks and moving furniture. That’s why it’s crucial to choose a contractor who is not only experienced but also transparent and trustworthy. Asking these essential questions will help you filter out inexperienced installers and find a professional who meets your expectations. 

1. How Many Years of Experience Do You Have in Flooring Installation? 

Experience speaks volumes. A contractor with several years (preferably 5+) in the business is more likely to handle unexpected issues and deliver a high-quality finish. 

Why It Matters: 

Experienced flooring contractors have likely worked with various materials (hardwood, vinyl, laminate, tile) and will know the best practices for each. 

2. Are You Licensed, Bonded, and Insured? 

Always confirm these three things. It protects you legally and financially if anything goes wrong during the project. 

Why It Matters: 

A licensed contractor ensures legal compliance, bonding protects against contract defaults, and insurance covers accidents and damages. 

3. Can You Provide References or a Portfolio of Past Work? 

A reputable contractor should be happy to show examples of previous projects or provide client testimonials. 

Why It Matters: 

Seeing real results builds trust and helps you assess the quality of their work. 

4. What Type of Flooring Do You Specialize In? 

Not every contractor is skilled in all types of flooring. Whether you're installing hardwood, vinyl plank, or tile, you want someone who’s an expert in that specific material. 

5. What Is Included in Your Estimate? 

Get clarity on whether the quote includes materials, labor, prep work, removal of old flooring, and cleanup. 

Why It Matters: 

This prevents surprise costs down the road and ensures you’re comparing apples to apples when getting multiple quotes. 

6. What’s the Estimated Timeline for Completion? 

Understanding the project timeline helps you plan and avoid unnecessary disruptions in your home life. 

7. Do You Offer a Warranty or Guarantee on Your Work? 

A solid warranty shows confidence in craftsmanship and provides you peace of mind long after the job is done. 

8. Who Will Be Doing the Work — You or Subcontractors? 

It’s important to know who will actually be in your home and responsible for the installation. 

9. How Do You Handle Unexpected Issues or Changes? 

Flooring projects often run into surprises like subfloor problems. Know how the contractor handles these scenarios. 

10. What Maintenance Will This Type of Flooring Require? 

Different materials require different levels of care. A good contractor will educate you on how to preserve your floor’s appearance and durability. 

Final Thoughts: Don’t Skip the Interview 

Choosing the right flooring contractor is a big decision. These 10 questions are your toolkit for making an informed choice. Don’t be afraid to ask them directly — professional contractors will appreciate your diligence and gladly provide answers.