The Most Important Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Sarasota General Contractor

Choosing the right general contractor for your home remodel or custom build in Sarasota is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Whether you're transforming a kitchen, building an addition, or starting a custom home from the ground up, your contractor sets the tone for the entire experience. At Sennes Design Build, we've guided hundreds of homeowners through this process, and we know just how important it is to ask the right questions upfront. Being thorough from the beginning can help avoid miscommunication, hidden costs, or delays that could derail your vision.

Below, we've put together a list of essential questions that every Sarasota homeowner should ask before signing a contract. These questions will help you avoid stress, stay within budget, and ensure you’re working with someone you can trust. Taking the time to ask them now can make all the difference in your overall remodeling experience.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured in Florida?

Always ask to see proof of a Florida contractor’s license and make sure they carry both general liability insurance and workers' compensation (Not an Exemption!). This protects you if an accident happens or something goes wrong during construction. It also gives you peace of mind knowing that the contractor is operating legally and responsibly within the state.

2. How Long Have You Been Working in Sarasota?

A contractor who has been working locally understands Sarasota’s permitting requirements, weather conditions, architectural trends, and coastal construction considerations. That local knowledge can make a big difference in how smoothly your project goes. Local experience also means the contractor likely has relationships with area suppliers and subcontractors, which can lead to better pricing and more efficient scheduling.

3. Do You Have Experience with Projects Like Mine?

Not all contractors are the right fit for every project. If you’re remodeling an older home in Laurel Park or designing a new build in Lakewood Ranch, you want someone who has tackled similar projects in the past and knows the nuances involved. Ask about comparable projects they’ve completed and whether they’ve worked with your type of architecture or materials.

4. Can You Provide References or Show Recent Project Photos?

A reputable contractor should be more than willing to provide recent references and examples of their work. Look for finished projects in the Sarasota area that are similar in scope and style to what you’re planning. Taking the time to talk to past clients or view a detailed portfolio can give you a clearer picture of what to expect.

5. Do You Have Good Reviews from Sarasota Clients?

Online reviews can tell you a lot about how a contractor communicates, stays on schedule, and handles unexpected issues. Look for consistent feedback on platforms like Google, Houzz, or the Better Business Bureau. Pay attention to how the contractor responds to both positive and negative reviews, as this can reveal how they handle customer service and resolve concerns.

6. What is Your Design and Build Process Like?

Ask how the contractor handles each phase of the project, from initial consultation and design to permits, construction, and final walkthrough. At Sennes Design Build, we integrate design and construction into one streamlined process, which helps keep your project organized and efficient from the very beginning. A clear process helps eliminate confusion, reduce delays, and keep you in the loop every step of the way.

7. Who Will Be Onsite Managing My Project?

You’ll want to know who will be your point of contact day-to-day. Will there be a dedicated project manager onsite? Will you have access to updates and progress reports? Knowing who is accountable for daily progress helps ensure that your questions are answered quickly and any issues are addressed promptly.

8. How Do You Handle Permits and Local Inspections?

Navigating building permits and inspections in Sarasota County can be time-consuming if you're not familiar with the process. Your contractor should take full responsibility for pulling permits, scheduling inspections, and making sure your project meets all building codes. This ensures that your project remains compliant and avoids costly fines or construction delays.

9. What is the Timeline for a Project Like Mine?

Every project is different, but your contractor should be able to provide a general timeframe based on the scope of your work. Understanding the construction schedule, along with potential delays, can help you plan ahead and avoid frustration down the road. A contractor who communicates realistic timelines from the beginning demonstrates experience and transparency.

10. What Happens if We Need to Make Changes During Construction?

Sometimes changes happen. Whether it's upgrading a finish or uncovering a surprise behind the walls, you’ll want to know how the contractor handles change orders. Ask about the process for approvals, costs, and timelines when something needs to shift mid-project. The way your contractor manages changes can make a huge impact on your final outcome and your budget.

11. How Will You Keep Me Informed During the Build?

Good communication is everything during a remodel or custom home build. Does the contractor provide weekly updates? Will they use a client portal, emails, or text messages? Knowing how you’ll stay connected throughout the process makes it easier to relax and enjoy the journey. Consistent updates also help avoid misunderstandings and keep the entire project on track.

12. What Exactly is Included in the Contract?

Your contract should clearly outline what’s included and what’s not. That includes labor, materials, design services, timelines, and payment schedules. A thorough contract protects everyone involved and keeps expectations aligned. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if anything in the contract is unclear—your contractor should walk you through it in detail.

13. Do You Offer a Warranty on Your Work?

Ask what kind of warranty the contractor provides after the work is complete. A reputable Sarasota contractor should stand behind their craftsmanship with a written warranty. This gives you confidence that they’ll return to fix any issues that may arise. Be sure to ask how long the warranty lasts and what is covered under the terms.

14. Can You Help with Design and Material Selections?

Some contractors strictly build, while others offer design support. If you need help choosing cabinetry, tile, lighting, or floor plans, make sure your contractor offers in-house design services or has a trusted design partner who can guide you through the selection process. Having design and build under one roof can save time and simplify decisions.

15. What Sets You Apart from Other Sarasota Contractors?

This is your opportunity to hear about their values, team culture, and what makes their company different. At Sennes Design Build, we believe in full transparency, creative problem solving, and exceptional craftsmanship—and we make sure that every client feels supported throughout the entire experience. Understanding what makes a contractor unique can help you determine if their approach aligns with your expectations.

16. Can You Walk Me Through a Recent Project from Start to Finish?

Hearing a real project story helps you get a sense of how the contractor works. Ask them to walk you through a recent job from design and permitting through to completion. You’ll learn how they communicate, solve challenges, and keep clients informed. It’s one of the best ways to see how their process plays out in real life and whether they follow through on their promises.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a general contractor is about more than just getting the lowest bid. It’s about finding a team you trust—people who will listen to your goals, respect your budget, and deliver high-quality work on time. When you ask the right questions, you’ll have a better sense of who’s the right fit for your home and your vision. At Sennes Design Build, we believe that an informed client is a confident client, and we’re here to help you make the best choice for your project.

If you’re ready to explore your project with a trusted Sarasota general contractor, reach out to the team at Sennes Design Build. We’re here to answer your questions, walk you through your options, and help bring your dream home to life with clarity and care.