How to Vet a Contractor in New Jersey Before You Hire

🏠 How to Vet a Contractor in New Jersey Before You Hire

Brought to you by Matera Builders – Ocean City’s Trusted Remodeling Experts for Over 37 Years

When planning a home remodel or addition in New Jersey, choosing the right contractor is the most important step you’ll take. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen, installing Andersen windows or doors, or building a new deck, hiring a licensed and insured contractor ensures your investment is protected and your project is built to last.

As a locally owned company based in Ocean City, NJ, Matera Builders has proudly served homeowners across the Jersey Shore for more than 37 years. Here’s our expert guide on how to properly vet your contractor before you sign any contract.

1. Verify They’re Registered and Licensed in New Jersey

In New Jersey, all home improvement contractors are required to register with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs under the Contractors’ Registration Act.
You can verify any contractor by visiting the NJ Consumer Affairs Contractor Search and checking that their registration is current and active.

Ask your contractor:

• What is your NJ Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) registration number?
• Can you provide a copy of your registration certificate?
• Do you hold any specialty licenses (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, etc.)?

At Matera Builders, our registration and credentials are always up to date—because trust and compliance come first.

2. Confirm They Carry Proper Insurance Coverage

Insurance protects both you and the contractor. Every reputable remodeler in NJ should have:

• General Liability Insurance (minimum $500,000 coverage per occurrence)
• Workers’ Compensation Insurance for all employees
• Commercial Auto and Property Insurance if company vehicles or equipment are used

Ask to see a Certificate of Insurance with your name and project address listed as an additional insured party.
If a contractor hesitates or says “don’t worry about it,” that’s your sign to move on.

3. Check Their Reputation and Local References

A trustworthy contractor should have strong local roots and a portfolio of completed projects in your area.

Do your research:

• Ask for 3–5 references from recent homeowners.
• Visit a current job site to see how clean, organized, and professional the crew is.
• Read Google Reviews, Better Business Bureau, and Houzz profiles.

Matera Builders has built a reputation for excellence in Ocean City, Avalon, Stone Harbor, and beyond—delivering craftsmanship and service that stand the test of time.

4. Review the Contract in Detail

A professional home improvement contract in New Jersey should always include:

• Detailed Scope of Work – outlining exactly what’s included
• Material Specifications – brand, color, finish, model numbers (e.g., Andersen 400 Series windows)
• Payment Schedule – reasonable deposit and milestone-based payments
• Start and Completion Dates
• Warranty Terms
• Contractor Registration and Insurance Information

Avoid contractors who refuse to put details in writing or offer only vague “ballpark” estimates.

5. Make Sure They Handle Permits and Inspections

In New Jersey, most remodeling projects—especially structural, electrical, or plumbing work—require local permits and inspections.
A qualified contractor should handle this process for you and work directly with your municipality’s building department.

Matera Builders is fully familiar with Ocean City and Cape May County building codes and handles all permitting and inspection coordination for our clients.

6. Watch for Red Flags 🚩

Protect yourself from the most common contractor scams:

• Unusually large upfront deposit
• No written contract or missing registration number
• Out-of-state phone number or no physical business address
• Pressure to “sign today for a discount”
• Asking you to pull your own permits
• No insurance documentation

If it feels off—it probably is.

7. Choose a Contractor with a Proven Local Track Record

Experience matters.
Matera Builders has been remodeling and building homes on the Jersey Shore for over 37 years, specializing in:

• Luxury Home Remodeling
• Andersen Window & Door Installation
• Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations
• Custom Carpentry and Trim Work
• Decks, Additions, and Whole-Home Projects

We’re proud to be a Premier Andersen Certified Contractor, and we stand behind every project with unmatched workmanship and integrity.

✅ Quick Vetting Checklist

Before you hire, make sure your contractor:

✔ Is registered with the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs
✔ Carries active liability and workers’ compensation insurance
✔ Provides written estimates and clear contracts
✔ Has a strong reputation and local references
✔ Pulls all necessary permits
✔ Offers warranty and post-completion service

About Matera Builders LLC

Matera Builders LLC is a family-owned and operated luxury home remodeling company in Ocean City, New Jersey, proudly serving the Avalon, Stone Harbor, and greater Jersey Shore communities.
Since 1988, we’ve specialized in custom kitchens, bathrooms, additions, decks, and Andersen window and door installations.
Our mission is simple: deliver craftsmanship, communication, and care—every time.

📍 601 Bay Ave, Ocean City, NJ 08226
📞 609-391-0429
🌐 www.materabuilders.com

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