How to Choose a General Contractor in Waco, TX: 7 Things to Check Before You Sign
Hiring the wrong GC can cost you months and thousands in change orders. Here's exactly what to verify before you sign a contract in Central Texas.
Hiring a general contractor is one of the biggest financial decisions Central Texas homeowners make — and one of the easiest to get wrong. Here is exactly what to check before you sign anything.
7 Things to Verify Before You Hire a GC
Licensed & Bonded
Texas doesn't require a statewide GC license, so ask directly for proof of bonding and general liability insurance — and call the insurer to confirm it's active.
Written, Itemized Bid
A real bid breaks out materials, labor, and allowances line by line. A one-page verbal number is a red flag, not a deal.
AGC Membership
Associated General Contractors of America membership means a contractor has agreed to a code of conduct and is part of the local trade community — not a fly-by-night operation.
Recent Local References
Ask for 2-3 addresses of projects completed in the last year, not just a review screenshot. Drive by if you can.
A Realistic Timeline
If every contractor quotes the same 6-week addition except one who promises 2 weeks, that’s the one to worry about.
A Real Workmanship Warranty
Ask what’s covered, for how long, and get it in writing. "We stand behind our work" is not a warranty.
Verbal Quote vs. Written Bid — What’s the Difference?
| What You Get | Verbal Quote | Written Itemized Bid |
|---|---|---|
| Price breakdown | One lump number | Materials, labor, allowances listed separately |
| Change-order protection | None | Scope is defined, changes require sign-off |
| Comparable across contractors | Difficult | Easy — apples to apples |
| Legally binding detail | Minimal | Full scope attached to the contract |
If a contractor won't put the bid in writing before you sign, that's your answer — walk away.
Red Flags to Walk Away From
- Asks for more than 10-30% down before any work starts
- No local address or can't name a recent local project
- Pressures you to sign same-day to "lock in the price"
- Cannot produce proof of insurance when asked directly
Ready to Get a Real, Written Bid?
Bedrock Construction Group is a licensed and bonded general contractor and AGC member — get an itemized estimate with no pressure.
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