How to Vet a Flooring Contractor (10 Questions to Ask)
The flooring industry has a low barrier to entry. Anyone with a truck and basic tools can advertise. The good news: 10 questions will tell you whether you're talking to a real contractor or a fly-by-night.
The 10 questions
1. Are you licensed in California? Look up the C-15 license at cslb.ca.gov. Active and current - not expired or "in renewal." If they don't have one and the job is over $500, that's a problem.
2. Are you insured? May I see proof? General liability and workers' comp. Ask for the certificate of insurance - a real contractor sends it within minutes.
3. How many years installing in the Inland Empire specifically? Climate matters. A pro who's been here 10+ years has seen the cupping, the gapping, the slab issues, and the moisture quirks of our region.
4. Can I see 3 jobs you completed in the last 12 months? Real, recent, local. Drive by if you can. Look at the seams, transitions, and quarter-round.
5. Will the people who quote the job be the people doing the work? Some larger outfits sell the job and subcontract install. Not always bad, but you should know.
6. What's included in the price - and what isn't? Demo, disposal, moving furniture, baseboards, transitions, stair nosings. Get the line items.
7. How long is the labor warranty? Real installers stand behind their work. Ours is lifetime workmanship guarantee. One year is the floor; less is a red flag.
8. Do you do moisture testing on the subfloor? This is non-negotiable. If they don't test, you risk cupping or gapping six months in. A pro tests every job.
9. What's the acclimation plan? Hardwood needs 3 - 5 days in the home before install. If they're saying "we'll deliver and install the same week," walk away.
10. Can you put the warranty in writing? Verbal warranties don't exist. Get it on paper, signed.
Red flags that should end the conversation
- Won't share a license number.
- Wants more than 10% upfront before materials are ordered.
- Pressures you to "decide today for the special price."
- Quotes significantly under everyone else with no clear reason.
- Asks for cash only.
- Shows up to estimate without any samples.
Green flags
- Brings a moisture meter to the estimate and uses it.
- Brings species samples and explains the trade-offs.
- Provides written, itemized quote within a few days.
- Has online reviews you can verify on Google, Yelp, BBB.
- Will give you references and follow up if you check them.
If you're vetting flooring contractors in the Inland Empire, we're happy to be one of the bids. Compare us straight against everyone else - that's the right way to choose.