Top 5 Signs You Picked the Wrong Contractor (and How to Fix It)

Recognizing contractor red flags early can save your project and your budget. Here's how to identify problems and take corrective action before it's too late.

**Don't Ignore These Warning Signs**

In Southern California's competitive construction market, choosing the wrong contractor can cost you tens of thousands of dollars and months of delays. Recognizing these warning signs early is crucial for protecting your investment.

**The Cost of Contractor Mistakes:**

  • • Average cost to fix poor workmanship: $15,000-$50,000
  • • Typical project delay from contractor issues: 2-6 months
  • • Legal fees for contractor disputes: $5,000-$25,000
  • • Permit violations and fines: $1,000-$10,000

**Sign #1: Poor Communication and Responsiveness**

**Red Flags to Watch For:**

  • **Takes days to return calls or texts** - Professional contractors respond within 24 hours
  • **Vague or evasive answers** to direct questions about timeline, costs, or methods
  • **No regular project updates** - You shouldn't have to chase them for status reports
  • **Dismissive of your concerns** or questions about the work
  • **No written communication** - Everything is verbal with no paper trail

**Real Example:**

"Our contractor stopped returning calls after we questioned why our kitchen remodel was three weeks behind schedule. When we finally reached him, he claimed the delays were 'normal' but couldn't explain why we weren't informed. We later discovered he had taken on too many projects and was juggling multiple jobs poorly."

- Homeowner in Manhattan Beach

**How to Fix It:**

**Immediate Action:**

Document all communication attempts. Send written requests for project updates and establish mandatory weekly progress meetings.

**Long-term Solution:**

If communication doesn't improve within one week, consider bringing in a project manager or switching contractors. Poor communication rarely improves on its own.

**Sign #2: Consistently Missing Deadlines Without Explanation**

**What Normal Delays Look Like vs. Red Flags:**

**Normal Delays (Acceptable)**

  • Weather-related delays with advance notice
  • Permit delays beyond contractor's control
  • Material delivery issues with supplier problems
  • Unexpected structural issues requiring engineering
  • Client-requested changes affecting timeline

**Red Flag Delays (Unacceptable)**

  • Repeated no-shows without explanation
  • Starting other projects during yours
  • Poor planning causing material shortages
  • Crew scheduling problems week after week
  • Blaming delays on issues that should be anticipated

**Timeline Expectations by Project Type:**

**Typical Southern California Project Timelines:**

  • **Kitchen remodel:** 6-10 weeks
  • **Bathroom remodel:** 4-6 weeks
  • **Room addition:** 12-16 weeks
  • **Whole house remodel:** 16-24 weeks
  • **Custom home build:** 12-18 months
  • **Commercial buildout:** 8-16 weeks

**How to Fix Timeline Issues:**

  • **Demand a revised schedule** with specific milestones and completion dates
  • **Implement penalty clauses** for future delays (if not already in contract)
  • **Require daily progress reports** until project gets back on track
  • **Consider bringing in additional crews** at contractor's expense
  • **Document all delays** for potential legal or insurance claims

For more insight into realistic project timelines, read our guide on ground-up build timelines in Southern California.

**Sign #3: Substandard Work Quality and Shortcuts**

**Quality Red Flags You Can Spot:**

**Structural Issues**

  • • Uneven floors, walls, or ceilings
  • • Gaps in framing or improper connections
  • • Sagging or bouncy floors
  • • Cracks appearing in new work

**Finish Work Problems**

  • • Uneven paint lines or missed spots
  • • Gaps in tile work or uneven grout lines
  • • Doors and windows that don't close properly
  • • Visible nail holes or poor caulking

**System Installation Issues**

  • • Electrical outlets or switches that don't work
  • • Plumbing leaks or poor water pressure
  • • HVAC systems that don't heat/cool properly
  • • Exposed wiring or plumbing

**Common Shortcuts That Cause Problems:**

  • **Skipping primer** before painting to save time
  • **Using cheaper materials** than specified in contract
  • **Inadequate surface preparation** before installing finishes
  • **Rushing electrical or plumbing rough-in** work
  • **Not following manufacturer specifications** for installations
  • **Skipping required inspections** to maintain schedule

**Case Study: Orange County Bathroom Remodel**

"Three months after our bathroom remodel was 'complete,' we noticed water damage in the ceiling below. Investigation revealed the contractor had skipped waterproofing behind the shower tile to save a day of work. The repair required tearing out the entire shower and cost us $12,000 plus three weeks of additional work."

**How to Address Quality Issues:**

**Document Everything:**

Take photos and videos of all quality issues. Create a detailed punch list with specific locations and problems.

**Demand Corrections:**

Provide written notice requiring all work to meet industry standards and contract specifications. Set deadlines for corrections.

**Get Second Opinions:**

Have another qualified contractor inspect questionable work. This provides leverage and documentation for disputes.

**Sign #4: Constant Requests for Additional Money**

**Legitimate vs. Suspicious Change Orders:**

**Legitimate Additional Costs**

  • Unexpected structural issues discovered during work
  • Code requirements that weren't apparent initially
  • Client-requested upgrades or changes
  • Permit fees higher than estimated
  • Hazardous material remediation (asbestos, lead)

**Suspicious Money Requests**

  • Items that should have been included in original bid
  • Vague explanations for additional costs
  • Requests for money before work is completed
  • Costs that seem inflated compared to market rates
  • Multiple small "extras" that add up significantly

**Warning Signs of Financial Manipulation:**

  • **Lowball initial bid** followed by numerous "unforeseen" costs
  • **Pressure for immediate payment** without proper documentation
  • **Requests for cash payments** to "save on taxes"
  • **No detailed breakdown** of additional costs
  • **Threats to stop work** unless paid immediately
  • **Payment requests ahead of work completion** schedule

**Real Example: Los Angeles Home Addition**

"Our contractor's initial bid was $85,000 for a room addition. By completion, we had paid $127,000 due to constant 'unexpected' costs. Later, we learned that a proper initial assessment would have identified most of these issues. The contractor had deliberately underbid to win the job."

**How to Handle Money Requests:**

**Demand Documentation:**

Require detailed written explanations, photos of issues, and itemized cost breakdowns for all additional work.

**Get Second Opinions:**

Have another contractor assess whether additional work is truly necessary and if costs are reasonable.

**Review Your Contract:**

Check what's covered in your original agreement. Many "extras" should have been included in the initial scope.

**Sign #5: Lack of Proper Licensing, Insurance, or Permits**

**Essential Credentials Every Contractor Must Have:**

**California Contractor's License**

  • • Valid Class B (General Building) or specialty license
  • • License number should be on all contracts and advertising
  • • Verify status at cslb.ca.gov
  • • Check for any disciplinary actions or complaints

**Insurance Coverage**

  • • General liability insurance ($1M minimum)
  • • Workers' compensation insurance
  • • Current certificates naming you as additional insured
  • • Verify coverage directly with insurance company

**Permit Requirements**

  • • Building permits for structural work
  • • Electrical permits for wiring changes
  • • Plumbing permits for pipe modifications
  • • Mechanical permits for HVAC work

**Red Flags That Indicate Problems:**

  • **Reluctance to provide license number** or insurance certificates
  • **Claims permits aren't necessary** for obvious permit-required work
  • **Offers to do work "under the table"** to avoid permits
  • **Can't provide current insurance certificates** upon request
  • **License lookup shows expired or suspended status**
  • **No business address** or uses only P.O. Box

**The Risks of Unlicensed/Uninsured Contractors:**

  • • You're liable for injuries on your property
  • • No recourse through contractor licensing board
  • • Unpermitted work must be redone to sell your home
  • • Insurance may not cover damage from unlicensed work
  • • Difficulty collecting on warranties or guarantees

**How to Verify Contractor Credentials:**

**License Verification:**

Visit cslb.ca.gov and search by license number or business name. Check status, expiration date, and any complaints or disciplinary actions.

**Insurance Verification:**

Request certificates directly from the insurance company. Don't accept copies that could be outdated or fraudulent.

**Permit Verification:**

Check with your local building department to ensure all required permits have been pulled and are in good standing.

For guidance on selecting qualified contractors, read our comprehensive guide on top 5 questions to ask before hiring a contractor.

**When to Cut Your Losses: Making the Difficult Decision**

**Signs It's Time to Fire Your Contractor:**

  • **Multiple red flags** from the list above are present
  • **No improvement** after addressing concerns in writing
  • **Safety violations** or dangerous work practices
  • **Breach of contract** terms regarding timeline or quality
  • **Loss of trust** in contractor's ability to complete project
  • **Financial irregularities** or suspected fraud

**How to Terminate a Contractor Relationship:**

**Step 1: Review Your Contract**

Check termination clauses, payment terms, and dispute resolution procedures. Understand your rights and obligations.

**Step 2: Document Everything**

Compile photos, correspondence, receipts, and a timeline of issues. This documentation is crucial for disputes or legal action.

**Step 3: Provide Written Notice**

Send certified letter outlining specific problems and giving final opportunity to correct issues within reasonable timeframe.

**Step 4: Secure the Job Site**

Change locks, secure materials, and prevent unauthorized access. Take inventory of materials and tools on site.

**Protecting Yourself During Transition:**

  • **Stop all payments** until issues are resolved
  • **Notify your insurance company** of potential claims
  • **Contact licensing board** to file complaints if applicable
  • **Consult with attorney** if significant money or damages involved
  • **Get assessment from new contractor** of work completed and needed

**Finding a Replacement Contractor: Lessons Learned**

**What to Look for in a Replacement:**

  • **Experience with problem projects** - Contractors who specialize in fixing others' work
  • **Detailed assessment capabilities** - Ability to evaluate existing work quality
  • **Transparent communication** - Clear explanations of what needs to be fixed
  • **Proper credentials** - All licensing, insurance, and bonding in order
  • **References from similar situations** - Other clients who had contractor problems
  • **Realistic timelines and budgets** - No lowball bids or unrealistic promises

**Questions to Ask Potential Replacement Contractors:**

**Essential Questions:**

  • • Have you taken over projects from other contractors before?
  • • What's your process for assessing existing work quality?
  • • Can you provide references from similar situations?
  • • How do you handle warranty issues on work you didn't perform?
  • • What's your typical timeline for completing interrupted projects?
  • • How do you price work that needs to be redone?

**Red Flags to Avoid in Replacement Contractors:**

  • **Criticizes previous contractor excessively** without focusing on solutions
  • **Promises to fix everything quickly and cheaply** - Usually unrealistic
  • **Reluctant to put assessments in writing** - You need documentation
  • **Pressures for immediate decision** - Take time to evaluate options
  • **Can't provide relevant references** - Experience matters in these situations

**Prevention: How to Avoid These Problems Next Time**

**Due Diligence Checklist:**

**Before Hiring:**

  • • Verify license, insurance, and bonding
  • • Check references from recent similar projects
  • • Visit current job sites if possible
  • • Get detailed written estimates from multiple contractors
  • • Research online reviews and Better Business Bureau ratings

**Contract Essentials:**

  • • Detailed scope of work and materials specifications
  • • Clear timeline with milestones and completion date
  • • Payment schedule tied to work completion
  • • Change order procedures and approval process
  • • Warranty terms and dispute resolution procedures

**During Construction:**

  • • Regular communication and progress updates
  • • Document work progress with photos
  • • Address concerns immediately in writing
  • • Verify permits and inspections are current
  • • Hold final payment until all work is complete

For comprehensive guidance on contractor selection, see our detailed guide on questions to ask before hiring a contractor.

Don't Let Contractor Problems Derail Your Project

If you're experiencing contractor issues or need help rescuing a troubled project, our experienced team specializes in problem resolution and project completion. We've helped hundreds of Southern California homeowners get their projects back on track.