How do I pick the best contractor for my project?

The Studio
Jun 17
3 min read

Hiring the right contractor is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make in the renovation process. The right partnership can elevate your home into the artful, deeply personal retreat you’re envisioning. The wrong fit? It can lead to costly delays, frustrating miscommunications, and a final result that simply falls short.

Our East Shore Renovation project, in partnership with Partners in Renovation — *Our East Shore Renovation project, in partnership with* *Partners in Renovation*

Here are a few of the questions we always recommend our clients ask when interviewing potential contractors — especially when the project involves custom work and elevated finishes.

1. Ask to See Their Work—In Person if Possible

Start by reviewing past projects. Photos are helpful, but if you have the opportunity to visit one of their completed renovations in person, even better. You’ll get a true sense of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and how their work holds up over time. Don’t be afraid to ask for references and speak directly to past clients about their experience.

*Our Meadowbrook Homestead Renovation project, in partnership with Bill Hughes, Inc.*

2. Look for Relevant Experience—and a Reliable Project Manager

Renovating a powder bath is vastly different from managing a full-home remodel with layered custom elements. Make sure the contractor has experience in the type of project you’re undertaking.

Just as important: find out who will actually be managing your project day to day. How many other projects will they be overseeing at the same time? How often will they be on-site to guide the trades? Are they taking detailed notes, tracking every nuance from client meetings, and following through on every detail discussed?

Our Player Bend Renovation project, in partnership with Penberthy Custom Builders — *Our Player Bend Renovation project, in partnership with* *Penberthy Custom Builders*

3. Confirm Their Experience with High-End Custom Work

There is a world of difference between standard renovations and homes with highly customized finishes. If a contractor isn’t familiar with the intricacies of high-end design—like custom millwork, designer lighting, or fine tile layouts—they may not be able to execute your vision to the level you expect.

The contractor you hire should understand the level of detail and quality you're aiming for and be committed to delivering exactly that.

4. Ask About Their Subcontractors

It’s common for contractors to work with a range of subcontractors, but ideally, they have an established network they trust and have worked with consistently. Even when working with the same sub, different crew members can affect the final outcome—so consistency, oversight, and clear communication matter.

A seasoned contractor takes full responsibility for their subcontractors’ work and will not walk away from a project unless you’re fully satisfied with the end result (assuming your expectations are within reason—something we can help guide you through).

5. Be Realistic About Timeline and Budget

One of the biggest red flags we see? A contractor who promises an overly aggressive timeline or too-good-to-be-true pricing.

If every other bid says 4–6 months, but one contractor tells you 2–3, proceed with caution. Trades like tile installation, cabinetry, and fine painting are not areas where you want to rush the process. Great work takes time—and that’s especially true when working with highly customized designs.

Costs, too, have shifted significantly in recent years. Material prices continue to rise, and allowances that might have made sense in 2020 likely won’t reflect the current market. We always encourage our clients to fully design their space before bidding begins. That way, you're receiving accurate, apples-to-apples bids—and you won’t be caught off guard with low allowances that don’t match the level of design you’re expecting.

Our Role in the Process at Charbonneau Interiors

One of the reasons our clients choose to work with us here at Charbonneau Interiors is because we walk through every detail with them — before a single hammer is lifted. We help set expectations, vet contractors, define quality, and serve as an advocate for you throughout the entire process.

Your home is an investment — and truthfully, so is your peace of mind. Your sanity is perhaps the most important thing to invest in during a renovation! A thoughtful design deserves an equally thoughtful build team, and we’re here to help make sure you get both.