The contractor decision matters more than any tile or counter choice — it's the difference between a remodel you brag about and a story you tell with a sigh. After 65 years on the good side of those stories, here's the checklist we'd give our own family.
The 8-point vetting checklist
1. Verify the license — actually verify it
Every Nevada contractor must be licensed by the State Contractors Board. Look the company up at nvcontractorsboard.com — check status, classification, and bond. (Banner: B-2 #0072905, C-1 #0073434, C-2 #0073993, C-3 #0072906.)
2. Ask who actually does the plumbing and electrical
Most remodelers sub these out to whoever's available. Ask: are your trades in-house and licensed, or subcontracted? In-house means one schedule, one standard, one accountable name.
3. Insurance and bond — ask for certificates
Liability insurance and the state bond protect you. A legitimate contractor produces certificates without flinching.
4. Read reviews for patterns, not perfection
Look for how problems were handled, communication quality, and repeat clients. A 65-year-old company with customers since 1983 tells you more than a perfect score with nine reviews.
5. Demand a line-item estimate
“Kitchen remodel: $60,000” is not an estimate. You want cabinets, counters, labor, plumbing, electrical, and allowances broken out — so changes are transparent, not leverage.
6. Ask about permits
If a contractor suggests skipping permits to save money, end the meeting. You're the one who owns the house — and the problem.
7. Get the schedule in writing
Start date, milestones, and what happens when surprises appear behind the wall. Surprises are normal; vagueness about them isn't.
8. Trust the showing-up test
Did they answer the phone? Show up when they said? Send the estimate when promised? Pre-contract behavior is the best preview of construction behavior.
Compare us against anyone
We win on the checklist — it’s why we published it. Free estimates: (775) 787-1966.