Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Builder in Montana

Hiring a builder is a big decision. Whether you’re building from the ground up or taking on a major remodel, you’re trusting someone with your money, your land, your timeline — and your future.

The best way to protect yourself and your investment? Ask the right questions before you sign on the dotted line.

Here are the top 10 questions every smart homeowner should ask — and the kind of answers you should expect:

1. Are you insured and registered in Montana?

This one’s non-negotiable. Always ask to see proof of liability insurance and workers’ comp coverage and/or workers comp. exempt certificate. If something goes wrong on your job site, these aren’t optional — they’re essential for protecting you and your property. Also, make sure the builder is properly registered to operate in the state of Montana.

*We’re fully insured and registered in Montana — and more than happy to provide documentation to give you peace of mind.

2. How long have you been building in this area?

Montana terrain, weather, and building codes are unique. Experience in this area matters.

*We have been building around the valley for over 30 years.

3. Can I see examples of your work?

Any builder worth hiring should be proud to show you completed homes, in-progress builds, or client referrals.

*We’ve got plenty. Just ask — we love showing off our work.

4. What’s your communication style during a build?

How often will you get updates? Who do you talk to when you have a question?

*You’ll work directly with Brittany throughout the build to keep things moving and on track. If you are not local Brittany is great at keeping you up to date with pictures and videos.

5. Who will actually be on my job site every day?

Some companies hand your job off. Others (like us) stay involved.

*We’re a hands-on, family-run company. You’ll know the faces on your job site.

6. What is your typical timeline — and how do you handle delays?

Delays happen. What matters is how your builder handles them.

*We build realistic timelines and adjust quickly when needed. No ghosting. No excuses.

7. How do you handle changes or upgrades during the project?

You’ll likely change your mind about something. Make sure your builder communicates well.

*We talk through changes in real time and explain costs before anything is added. If we are doing a bid job vs. a cost + job, there will be a formal change order form filled out.

8. What’s included in your estimate?

Some bids seem cheaper until you realize key things were left out.

*Our estimates are detailed broken out into many categories and very easy to understand. No confusion, no surprises.

9. Do you offer a warranty or post-construction support?

Your builder should still be around after move-in.

*We offer a 1-year warranty on our work and we’re always available if something comes up. We don’t disappear once the job is done.

10. Why should I choose you over the competition?

Look for values, experience, and trust — not just price.

*We’ve been in the business for over 30 years. We don’t sub out every job — we do most of them ourselves. And when we do (plumbing, electrical, HVAC, masonry, painting), we use trusted, vetted experts. We would never let unqualified people into your home. Our name is on every job and we take pride in that.

We also don’t ask for money up front before your job starts. Instead, we bill at the beginning of each month based on work that’s already been completed — so you’re never paying for promises, only progress.

Final Thoughts:

Choosing the right builder can make or break your experience. And if you’re comparing bids from different companies, make sure you’re comparing apples to apples. Some contractors will lowball the bid to get the job — then throw a pile of “extras” at you later. Transparency matters.

Ask questions. Expect answers. And if you’re ready to ask us, we are ready to meet you!