Questions to Ask When You're Selecting a Contractor

Wildfire retrofits can involve unfamiliar materials, changing recommendations and major expenses. A knowledgeable contractor can help you identify your home’s most important vulnerabilities, understand your options and choose improvements that fit your budget.

Before hiring someone, compare proposals, ask questions and make sure the contractor understands wildfire risk reduction.

Start With the Right Goal

No upgrade can make a home fireproof. Wildfire retrofits are meant to reduce vulnerabilities and improve the chance that a home survives embers, heat or nearby flames.

A qualified contractor should understand how home hardening and defensible space work together. Be cautious of anyone who promises that one product or project will fireproof your home.

Questions to Ask

1. Do you have wildfire retrofit experience?

Ask whether the contractor has worked with:

• Ember-resistant vents
• Class A-rated decking
• Noncombustible fencing and gates
• Metal flashing and protective exterior details
• Zone 0 improvements within the first 5 feet of the home
• Request examples of similar projects. When possible, ask to see photographs or visit completed work.

Because wildfire-resilient construction continues to evolve, look for someone who follows current guidance, pursues training and is willing to research unfamiliar products.

2. How would you address the areas closest to my home?

Combustible materials attached to or next to a house can give fire a direct path to the structure. Wood fences, gates and decks are common concerns.

Possible improvements may include:

• Replacing an attached wood gate or fence section with metal
• Using corrugated metal or powder-coated aluminum
• Adding metal or foil-faced flashing over deck joists
• Installing noncombustible material where a deck meets the house
• Adding ember-resistant screening
• Sealing gaps or other places where embers could enter or collect
• Keeping the area beneath decks free of combustible storage

Ask the contractor which improvements would reduce the greatest risk at your home.

3. What are the costs and trade-offs?

Materials vary in price, appearance, durability and maintenance needs. Ask the contractor to explain:

• Why a product is recommended
• How long it should last
• How it performs in Marin’s climate
• What maintenance it requires
• Whether lower-cost or phased options are available
• Which improvements should come first

Also ask about manufacturer requirements. Some products must be installed, maintained or paired with specific materials in a particular way to meet their rating or keep the warranty valid.

Ignition-resistant materials do not have to look industrial. Class A decking, powder-coated aluminum, corrugated metal and cable railings can provide attractive alternatives to wood. Ask to see samples or completed projects.

4. Could your work affect my insurance?

Insurance requirements are one reason more homeowners are considering wildfire retrofits. However, a contractor should not promise that an upgrade will guarantee coverage, lower premiums or prevent cancellation.

Before beginning work:

• Ask your insurance carrier whether it recognizes specific improvements
• Confirm whether photographs, permits, receipts or product details should be saved
• Keep records of the work completed and materials installed
• Ask whether inspections or other documentation may be required

Even when an upgrade does not change your insurance, it may still improve durability, reduce maintenance and address an important wildfire vulnerability.

5. Can you provide a detailed estimate?

Whenever possible, interview at least three contractors and request a written estimate from each. Don’t just compare the price, but also look at their proposed approach, materials, timeline and communication style.

Ask for:

• Proof of licensing
• Process around attaining permits
  • You should check with your local government agency to determine permitting needs.
• Liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage
• Contact references to ask whether the work was completed on time, within budget and to the expected standard.

Before work begins, make sure the final agreement is in writing and includes the complete scope of work, specific materials, project schedule, payment terms, permit responsibilities, warranties, cleanup and how changes to the work will be handled. Do not rely on verbal promises. Any changes made after the project begins should also be documented in writing.

Each estimate should include:

• Scope of work
• Exact materials and products
• Labor and material costs
• Schedule and payment terms
• Permit responsibilities
• Manufacturer and contractor warranties
• Cleanup and disposal

When comparing bids, make sure they include the same work and materials. A much lower price may leave out permits, protective details, cleanup or other important items.