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Contractor and Vendor Evaluation Checklist

An evaluation checklist for vetting contractors and vendors before hiring: credentials, references, quotes, contract terms and working style.

What this tool does

An evaluation checklist for vetting contractors and vendors before hiring: credentials, references, quotes, contract terms and working style.

How to use

  1. Work down the list and tick each item as you finish it.
  2. Ticks are saved on this device, in your browser, so they are still there when you come back.

What this checklist covers

The list has 4 groups and 14 items.

  • Credentials and cover (4 items): Verify business license and registration where your area requires them; Check proof of insurance that suits the work; Request and verify professional certifications; Verify bonding status if applicable
  • Track record (4 items): Contact several references from past clients; Read online reviews; Check for complaints with a local consumer protection or business rating body; Request portfolio or examples of past work
  • Quotes and terms (4 items): Obtain multiple written quotes for comparison; Review sample contracts and payment terms; Clarify warranty and guarantee terms; Verify subcontractor policies and procedures
  • Working together (2 items): Confirm availability and timeline for the project; Assess communication responsiveness

Tip: Tick each check off as you finish it, and keep your notes for each candidate somewhere else. Ticks are saved on this device.

Limitations

  • This is a general list and not legal advice. Licensing, insurance and contract rules differ by place and by trade.
  • It holds one set of ticks, so it cannot track several candidates side by side.
  • Ticks are saved only in this browser on this device.

FAQs

Q: Does the checklist check anyone for me?
A: No. It is a list of things to check yourself. It does not look up licences, insurance, reviews or complaints.
Q: Which checks apply to my job?
A: That depends on the work and where you live. Skip items that do not apply and check local requirements separately.
Q: Are my ticks saved?
A: Yes, in your browser on this device, as one set of ticks. They are not sent anywhere. If you are comparing several candidates, keep a separate record for each.

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