A practical checklist for choosing a Houston general contractor — what to ask, what the contract should say, and the warning signs to walk away from.
To hire a general contractor in Houston, get at least two or three written proposals for the same scope, ask for proof of general liability insurance, confirm that plumbing, electrical and HVAC work will be done by state-licensed trades, and read the contract for scope, payment schedule, change-order process, timeline and warranty. Texas has no statewide general contractor license, so insurance, references, a clear written scope and local permitting experience matter more than a license number. Walk away from anyone who asks for most of the money up front, will not put the scope in writing, or suggests skipping permits.
Start with a written scope
Before comparing contractors, write down what you want done: rooms, finishes you already know you want, anything that must stay, and your target timing. Proposals can only be compared when every contractor is pricing the same work.
A good general contractor in Houston will walk the property, ask about how you use the space, and come back with a written scope that lists what is included and what is not.
What Texas licensing does and does not cover
Texas does not issue a statewide license for general contractors or remodelers. Plumbers, electricians and HVAC contractors are licensed by the state, so ask who will perform that work and confirm those trades hold current licenses.
Ask for a certificate of general liability insurance. Novara is general liability insured and provides a certificate of insurance on request.
Questions to ask every contractor
Who will manage my project day to day, and how often will we talk? Which parts do your own crews do and which go to trade partners? Who pulls permits and schedules inspections? How do you handle changes after work starts? What warranty do you give, and what does it cover?
Ask for recent projects similar to yours and, where possible, to speak with past clients.
What the contract should include
A clear scope of work and specification list, a price and payment schedule tied to progress, a written change-order process, an expected start and completion window, who handles permits, cleanup expectations and the warranty terms. Novara's projects carry a 1-year workmanship warranty.
Red flags
A very large deposit before any materials are ordered, pressure to sign the same day, a verbal-only quote, a price far below everyone else with no explanation, reluctance to show insurance, or advice to skip permits on work that needs them.
Describe your project on our project request page, or call (281) 889-1068. Novara follows up within one business day to set up a free consultation.
Contractor comparison checklist
| Check | What good looks like | Warning sign |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Written, itemized, lists exclusions | One-line quote or verbal price |
| Insurance | Certificate of liability insurance provided | Won't show proof |
| Licensed trades | Named, state-licensed plumber / electrician / HVAC | "We handle it ourselves" with no license |
| Payments | Tied to milestones | Most of the price up front |
| Changes | Written change orders with price and time | "We'll figure it out later" |
| Permits | Contractor explains which are needed | Suggests skipping them |
| Warranty | Written terms | None offered |
In pictures
Frequently asked questions
- Does a general contractor need a license in Texas?
- Texas has no statewide general contractor license. Plumbing, electrical and HVAC work must be done by state-licensed professionals, and some cities require contractor registration for permits.
- How many quotes should I get?
- Two or three written proposals for the same scope are usually enough to compare price, approach and communication.
- Who pulls the permit?
- Usually the general contractor coordinates permits and inspections. Confirm this in the contract.
Related services and areas
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