Top 5 Problems Homeowners Face When Working with Contractors (And How to Avoid Them)

Hiring a contractor for a major project on your home can feel exciting, but also stressful.

While there are many excellent contractors out there, some homeowners run into avoidable problems that turn their dream project into a nightmare.

With nearly 20 years in the home improvement industry, we’ve heard more than our fair share of contractor horror stories. From projects that drag on for months longer than promised, to final invoices that look nothing like the original estimate. We understand why many homeowners feel hesitant when it comes to hiring someone to work on their home.

The good news is that most of these problems can be avoided by knowing what to look for in a contractor, and what red flags to watch out for. Here are the top five issues we see homeowners face when working with contractors, and some advice to help you sidestep them.

#1 Lack of Transparency: Sweeping Under the Rug

We’ve heard many homeowners tell us they worry about a lack of transparency. When contractors aren’t upfront about the details of a job, it can lead to unpleasant surprises.

You might find yourself hit with unexpected charges at the end of the project, dealing with timelines that stretch far longer than originally promised, or discovering that the contractor’s idea of “quality work” doesn’t line up with their own expectations.

How to Avoid

The easiest way to avoid this is to work with a contractor who provides a clear, written proposal before any work begins. That proposal should include pricing, materials, a realistic schedule, and warranty details. The right contractor will take the time to answer your questions and make sure you understand exactly what you’re paying for and when the job will be complete.

#2 Poor Communication: Keeping You Out of the Loop

Communication breakdowns are another major source of stress. When contractors fail to clearly explain the scope of work and keep you updated on timelines, you might be left wondering what exactly they’re getting for their money.

This usually continues to be issue throughout the entire project. Some contractors struggle to share which days crews will be at the house or give updates when timelines shift, and it creates confusion and frustration. Even payment issues can arise simply because expectations weren’t clearly laid out.

How to Avoid

Choosing a contractor with a reputation for strong customer service can make all the difference. The best contractors check in regularly—often weekly—to keep you informed and answer any questions so there are no surprises along the way. Reading reviews, and asking for referrals can help you find a contractor you can trust to communicate with you.

#3 Poor Craftsmanship: Incorrect Installation

Spending thousands of dollars on a project only to see sloppy results is one of the most disheartening experiences a homeowner can have. Poor craftsmanship can show up in many ways, from siding that is installed incorrectly, roofing that leaks after the first storm, or materials that fail long before their advertised lifespan.

How to Avoid

Homeowners can protect themselves by looking for contractors who have manufacturer certifications, asking for photos of past work, reading reviews from previous customers, and making sure the contractor offers a strong labor warranty. A contractor who stands behind their work is far more likely to deliver the level of quality you’re expecting.

#4 Lengthy Delays: Going off Timeline

Sometimes delays are unavoidable because of bad weather or permitting issues, but other times they’re the result of poor planning or contractors taking on too many jobs at once. This leaves homeowners waiting weeks or even months longer than they expected for their project to be finished. Many times, this is an issue that comes up in addition to poor communication from your contractor, leaving you in the dark for reasons behind these delays.

How to Avoid

The best way to avoid this is to talk with your contractor up front about their schedule and how they handle unexpected setbacks. A good contractor will set a realistic timeline and communicate quickly if something changes so you’re never left in the dark.

Look out for full renovations that are promised to be done over the weekend. If a contractor can’t provide you a timeline (or it seems suspiciously fast), that may be a red flag you’ll be looking at delays later in your project.

#5 Expensive Cost Overruns: Exceeding Your Budget

Few things sting more than a final invoice that’s thousands of dollars higher than the original quote. While there are situations where costs go up—for example, if hidden damage is discovered or if you decide to add extra work mid-project—your final bill should still be reasonably close to the original estimate.

How to Avoid

Keep an eye out for bids or estimates that are extremely low, most times that’s a red flag that charges are being left out of the price. Shady contractors can sometimes hide necessary charges to make their original price low, then tack on more and more charges as the job progresses without changing any of the initial scope.

Contractors who take the time to visit your home in person, evaluate the work that needs to be done, and consider every detail before providing a price are far less likely to leave you with sticker shock.

How to Choose the Right Contractor:

Now that you know the many issues that can arise while working with contractors on your home, it’s important to know how to pick the right contractor. This can feel overwhelming, especially with so many companies out there promising great results. The truth is, the right choice can save you time, money, and stress while making sure your project is done correctly the first time.

Start by looking at reviews from real customers. Honest feedback from homeowners who have worked with the company gives you a clear picture of what to expect. Next, consider warranties. Most siding and roofing manufacturers require proper installation for coverage to remain valid, so choosing a contractor with factory certifications or training can protect your investment down the road.

Local experience matters too, especially in Seattle, where rain and moisture create unique challenges for exterior work. A contractor who understands how to handle our weather will know the right techniques and materials to prevent future issues.

Finally, verify credentials. Make sure any contractor you hire is licensed, insured, has a physical office, and ideally holds BBB accreditation. Checking these details ensures you’re working with a legitimate, trustworthy business rather than a fly-by-night operation. By keeping these points in mind, you can feel confident you’re choosing a contractor who will deliver quality work and peace of mind from start to finish.

Ready to Avoid These Problems?

Working with a contractor doesn’t have to be stressful or risky.

Hiring the right contractor can make all the difference between a stressful project and one you actually enjoy. When you work with a company that’s transparent, communicative, skilled, realistic about timelines, and thorough in their estimates, you can feel confident every step of the way.

With nearly 20 years of experience, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners avoid these common pitfalls and get results they love (without the headaches). If you’re ready to start your project with a team you can trust, book your free in-home estimate today—we’ll walk you through the process, answer all your questions, and give you a detailed plan so there are no surprises.