The Top 10 Things to Ask Your Builder Before Starting Your Project

Beginning a custom home build or major renovation is an exciting milestone, but it’s also a significant investment. The builder you choose will shape your experience from day one, so asking the right questions upfront is essential. At RLK, we believe that clarity, transparency, and communication are the foundation of a successful project.

Here are the top 10 questions every homeowner should ask before signing a contract.

1. What is your communication process during the build?

Consistent communication is the difference between feeling informed and feeling overwhelmed. Ask how often you’ll receive updates, who your point of contact will be, and what tools the builder uses to keep clients in the loop. A great builder doesn’t leave you guessing.

2. How do you handle budgeting and cost transparency?

Understanding how your builder manages costs is crucial. This includes:

• How pricing is structured

• How change orders are handled

• How costs are tracked and shared

Builders using a cost-plus model (like RLK) provide documentation and real-time visibility, helping homeowners make confident, informed decisions.

3. What is your process for pre-construction planning?

A smooth build begins long before construction starts. Ask about:

• Site evaluation

• Architectural coordination

• Engineering review

• Permitting timelines

• Scheduling

A thorough pre-construction process ensures fewer surprises and a more efficient build.

4. Who are your trade partners, and how long have you worked with them?

A builder is only as strong as the team behind them. Skilled, reliable trade partners influence everything from workmanship to scheduling. Builders with long-standing relationships typically deliver higher consistency and quality.

5. How do you approach jobsite quality and craftsmanship?

Your builder should have clear standards and systems for quality control. This includes regular walkthroughs, detailed inspections, and the willingness to correct issues before they become bigger problems. Craftsmanship is a core value, not an afterthought.

6. What is your typical project timeline, and how do you manage delays?

Weather, supply chains, and site conditions can affect schedules, especially in Colorado’s mountains. A great builder will give you a realistic timeline, explain how they handle unavoidable delays, and keep you updated throughout the process.

7. How do you handle changes once a project is underway?

Homeowners often refine their vision as the build progresses. Ask how changes are documented, priced, and scheduled. A smooth change order process keeps the project moving and maintains budget alignment.

8. What warranties or post-build support do you offer?

Your relationship with a builder shouldn’t end at move-in. Ask about:

• Post-completion walkthroughs
  
  

• Warranty coverage
  
  

• Response times for warranty claims
  A builder who stands behind their work gives homeowners long-term peace of mind.
  
  

9. How do you ensure jobsite safety and cleanliness?

A safe site is a professional site. Cleanliness impacts workflow, safety, and overall project quality. When a builder takes jobsite care seriously, it reflects their attention to detail in every area.

10. What makes your building process different from other builders?

This is your chance to learn what sets them apart. Do they offer:

• More transparency?
  
  

• Better communication?
  
  

• Stronger trade partnerships?
  
  

• A more thoughtful approach to design and construction?
  
  

A great builder will be able to articulate their value clearly and show you how it benefits your home, your budget, and your experience.

Choosing the Right Builder Sets the Tone for the Entire Project

Whether you’re building a mountain home from the ground up or renovating an existing space, the right builder will guide you through the process with confidence. Asking these questions ensures that you start your project with clarity and trust and a partner who’s aligned with your vision.

At RLK, we are committed to transparent communication, expert execution, and a client experience that feels seamless from the first meeting to move-in day.