When hiring a contractor for a home improvement project, whether it’s a new patio, a stamped concrete driveway, or an epoxy garage floor, one of the most important things you should ask is: Are you insured and bonded?

It might seem like a simple question, but hiring a contractor who isn’t properly insured or bonded could leave you financially and legally vulnerable if something goes wrong. Let’s break down what this means, why it matters, and how to make sure your contractor is covered before signing on the dotted line.

What Does It Mean for a Contractor to Be Insured and Bonded?

Being Insured: This means the contractor has liability and worker’s compensation insurance, which protects you if there’s property damage or injuries on your project site.

Being Bonded: This means the contractor has a surety bond that ensures they complete the job as agreed. If they fail to do so, whether they leave the job unfinished or don’t meet contractual obligations, the bond provides financial protection to you.

Why Hiring an Insured and Bonded Contractor Matters

1. Protects You from Liability

Imagine this: A contractor is working on your property, and one of their crew members falls off a ladder. If the contractor doesn’t have insurance, you, as the homeowner, could be held financially responsible for their medical bills. Worker’s compensation insurance ensures that injured workers are covered without affecting you.

✅ Insurance covers accidents, keeping you out of legal trouble.

2. Covers Property Damage

Mistakes happen, even with experienced contractors. If an uninsured contractor accidentally damages your home, driveway, or landscaping, you could be stuck paying for repairs. A contractor with liability insurance ensures that any accidental damages are covered.

✅ Without insurance, you might have to pay for costly repairs out of pocket.

3. Ensures You’re Protected from Fraud or Incomplete Work

A bonded contractor provides an extra layer of protection. If a contractor takes your deposit and disappears, or fails to complete the work properly, you can file a claim against their bond.

Without a bond, your only option may be taking legal action, which is costly and time-consuming.

✅ A bond gives you peace of mind that your project will be completed as agreed.

4. Demonstrates Professionalism & Credibility

Reputable contractors prioritize insurance and bonding because they care about their clients and their business reputation. If a contractor is hesitant or refuses to show proof of insurance or bonding, that’s a major red flag.

✅ A professional, responsible contractor will always be willing to provide proof of coverage.

How to Verify That Your Contractor Is Insured and Bonded

Before hiring a contractor, take these steps to protect yourself and your investment:

✔ Ask for Proof of Insurance: Request a copy of their Certificate of Insurance and ensure it includes general liability and worker’s compensation coverage.

✔ Verify the Insurance Coverage: Call the insurance provider to confirm the policy is active.

✔ Check Bonding Status: Ask for their bond number and bond company to verify the bond is valid.

✔ Check Licensing Requirements: Some states require contractors to be licensed, insured, and bonded to operate legally.

✔ Read Reviews & Ask for References: A reputable contractor will have positive reviews, testimonials, and a track record of satisfied customers.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Take the Risk

Hiring a contractor without proper insurance and bonding might seem like a way to save money, but it could cost you thousands in the long run if something goes wrong. Protect yourself, your home, and your investment by ensuring your contractor is fully covered before starting any project.

At Select Services, we take professionalism seriously. Our team is fully insured, bonded, and committed to delivering high-quality craftsmanship with peace of mind.

📞 Contact us today to discuss your next project with a team you can trust!