Red flags, in plain English

None of these mean someone's a crook. They mean slow down and ask a few more questions.

Suspended or revoked license

Don't hire. A suspended or revoked contractor can't legally contract until it's fixed. Our search only shows currently active licenses — if someone isn't in it, find out why.

Discipline on record

ROC publishes recent disciplinary actions. Some get resolved and the license comes back. Ask the contractor what happened. An honest answer is worth a lot.

License under 2 years old

Everybody starts somewhere, and some of the best folks I know are newer. Just lean harder on references and the written contract.

Minimum bond on a big job

A minimum bond won't go far on a $60,000 remodel. It's not a reason to refuse — but it's a reason to make sure payments follow progress.

Wrong class for the work

A minor-improvements license (R-62) isn't for rewiring your house or replumbing a kitchen. Make sure licensed specialists are doing that work.

Pressure and cash

"Today only" pricing, cash-only, no written contract, door-knocking after a storm. Classic.

License about to expire

Make sure it renews before work starts.