Questions to Ask a Contractor Before Installing New Flooring
This guide is for general homeowner education. For safety-sensitive repairs or active damage, contact a licensed professional.
Quick answer
Before signing any flooring contract, ask about moisture testing, subfloor prep, the exact materials and underlayment, the timeline, who handles cleanup and disposal, and the warranty for both materials and labor. Get everything in writing — a 10-minute conversation here can save thousands later.
A flooring install is one of the bigger home projects most homeowners take on. The most common complaints — soft spots, gaps, premature wear — almost always trace back to what happened (or didn't happen) before the first plank went down. Asking the right questions up front protects you from those surprises.
Questions about moisture testing
- Will you test the slab or subfloor for moisture before installation?
- Which test will you use — calcium chloride, RH probe, or surface meter?
- What target reading do we need to see for the manufacturer's warranty?
- Will you provide written copies of the readings?
- If the slab is borderline, what mitigation product will you use?
Why this matters
Skipping moisture testing is the single biggest cause of voided flooring warranties. Our guide on signs your concrete slab is still wet covers what to look for yourself.
Questions about subfloor prep
- Will you check the subfloor for damage and replace any soft sections?
- Will you level any low spots or grind down high spots?
- What underlayment will you use, and is it required by the manufacturer?
- Will you secure squeaks before installing new flooring?
- Are there any extra costs likely once the old flooring comes up?
Questions about materials
- What is the exact brand, line, and SKU of the flooring?
- What's the wear-layer thickness or AC rating?
- Does the price include transitions, baseboards, and shoe molding?
- How much extra material will you order for waste and future repairs?
- Do you keep any unused boxes for me at the end of the job?
Questions about labor and timeline
- How many days will the job take?
- Are the installers your employees or subcontractors?
- What happens if the project runs long?
- Will the same crew be on the job from start to finish?
- What's the payment schedule — and what's owed at the start?
Questions about warranty
- How long is the labor warranty?
- How long is the materials warranty, and who registers it?
- What does the warranty exclude?
- Who handles a callback — your team or the manufacturer?
- What's your typical response time for warranty issues?
Questions about cleanup and disposal
- Is removal and disposal of old flooring included?
- Will furniture be moved by your crew or do I move it?
- Do you protect adjacent rooms during demolition?
- How do you handle dust during sanding or cutting?
- What does the space look like at the end of each day?
Red flags to watch for
- Quotes that are far below the others — usually skipping prep work
- No moisture testing in the proposal
- Vague materials list (no brand, line, or SKU)
- Pressure to pay 50%+ before any work begins
- No written warranty terms
- Reluctance to share references or recent project photos
When to call a professional
Always hire a licensed and insured flooring contractor for installs. If the project involves slab prep, water damage history, or subfloor replacement, also check that they (or a partner) are qualified to handle the underlying work. Ask for proof of insurance before scheduling.
Frequently asked questions
Should I get the contract in writing?+
Always. A written scope of work — including materials, prep, timeline, payment schedule, and warranty — protects both you and the contractor.
How many quotes should I get?+
Three is the homeowner standard. It's enough to spot outliers without becoming overwhelming.
Should I buy my own flooring material?+
Sometimes — it can save money, but it shifts warranty risk to you. Confirm with the installer before doing it.
Is it normal to pay a deposit?+
Yes. A deposit of 10–30% is common. Be cautious of anyone asking for 50% or more upfront.
Related articles
What to Do If Water Gets Under Vinyl Plank Flooring
Vinyl plank is waterproof on top, but the seams and subfloor are not. Here's a calm, step-by-step plan for drying, inspecting, and deciding whether the planks need to come up.
Can You Install Flooring Over Moisture Barrier Glue?
What moisture barrier glue actually does, and whether new flooring can safely go directly on top of it.
Signs Your Concrete Slab Is Still Wet After Water Damage
Telltale signs your slab is still holding moisture — and what to do before installing flooring on top.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Water-Damaged Flooring?
Typical price ranges for replacing water-damaged vinyl, laminate, hardwood, tile, and carpet — plus what drives the price up.