Red Flags to Avoid When Hiring Deck Builders

Red Flags to Avoid When Choosing Deck Builders or Contractors

Building a deck is a major investment that can increase your home’s value and outdoor living experience. The first and most important step is hiring a trustworthy deck contractor. Sadly, every year, countless homeowners fall victim to unreliable contractors who vanish with deposits, leave projects incomplete, or deliver poorly constructed decks.

That’s why spotting deck contractor red flags before it’s too late is so vital. At Olympic Deck, we’ve spent over a decade building premium decks and have seen firsthand the consequences of hiring the wrong contractor. To help you avoid costly mistakes, we’ve compiled a list of six clear warning signs that indicate a contractor might not be worth your time—or your money. If you encounter these red flags, it’s best to walk away and find a builder you can trust.

Red Flag # 1: No online presence

A contractor without a physical address, phone number, or any online presence is a pretty big red flag that should make homeowners proceed with caution. Nowadays, legitimate businesses almost always have some form of accessible contact information, whether it’s a website, social media profile, or business listing. These tools allow homeowners to verify the contractor’s credentials, view their portfolio, and read reviews from previous clients. Without these, there’s little evidence of the contractor’s experience or reputation, making it nearly impossible to trust their professionalism.

The absence of clear contact details raises concerns about accountability. Imagine hiring someone who completes half the work and then becomes unreachable, with no reliable way to follow up or resolve disputes. This lack of transparency may also point to a contractor operating under the radar, with little regard for building codes or permits.

To safeguard your project, always choose a contractor with clear, accessible contact information and a verified online presence. A reputable contractor is proud to showcase their work and provide an open line of communication, giving you confidence in their reliability and dedication to your project’s success.

Red Flag # 2: Hiring a deck builder without insurance or credentials

Hiring a deck contractor without proper insurance or credentials is a major risk that could lead to costly consequences. Without insurance, you may be held financially responsible if someone is injured on the job or if damage occurs to your property during construction. For example, imagine a contractor accidentally damages a water line while installing footings for your deck. Without liability insurance, you could end up footing the repair bill, which might run into thousands of dollars. Proper credentials, such as licensing, ensure that the contractor has met industry standards and follows local building codes. Skipping these requirements could leave you with a deck that isn’t structurally sound or doesn’t pass inspection, forcing you to spend more money on repairs or rebuilding.

Beyond the financial risks, hiring an unqualified contractor can compromise the safety and longevity of your deck. For instance, an inexperienced or unlicensed contractor might use substandard materials or incorrect installation methods, leading to a deck that wobbles or even collapses under normal use. Picture hosting a barbecue with friends and family, only for your new deck to fail because it wasn’t built properly—putting everyone at risk of injury. Avoid these contractor hiring mistakes by finding a contractor with the right insurance and credentials. Knowing that your deck will be built safely and professionally gives you peace of mind.

Red Flag # 3: Hiring a deck builder without a written contract

This is a big “no-no” in the construction world. Hiring a deck contractor without a written contract or clear project details can lead to confusion, unexpected costs, and even legal trouble. A written contract acts as a roadmap, outlining everything from the scope of work and project timeline to materials and costs. Without this document, you have no concrete agreement to fall back on if the contractor fails to meet expectations.

For example, imagine agreeing verbally on a timeline, but the contractor takes twice as long as promised. Without a written contract, holding them accountable becomes nearly impossible, leaving you frustrated and potentially stuck with an unfinished project.

Vague project details can also lead to “scope creep,” where extra tasks are added without clear agreements on cost or time. For instance, the contractor might use higher-end materials without consulting you, resulting in unexpected expenses that stretch your budget. This can leave you scrambling to cover costs you didn’t anticipate. To avoid these contractor hiring mistakes, always insist on a detailed, written contract that specifies the terms, costs, and timeline. A clear agreement protects your investment and ensures everyone is on the same page, saving you from unnecessary headaches down the road.

Red Flag # 4: Demanding full payment upfront

If a contractor asks for full payment upfront, it’s a glaring red flag that should make any homeowner pause. Reputable contractors typically request a deposit or partial payments tied to milestones—points in the project where specific tasks are completed. Requesting the entire project cost before any work begins might signal financial instability or, worse, dishonesty on the part of the contractor. A trustworthy contractor should have the financial resources and confidence in their work to wait for full payment upon completion.

Paying the entire amount upfront leaves you with little to no leverage if things go wrong. For example, imagine handing over the full payment, and then the contractor disappears or delivers subpar results. You’re left scrambling to recover your money, often requiring costly legal action or hiring another contractor to fix the mess. Without the financial incentive to see the job through, the contractor might delay the project or fail to meet agreed-upon standards.

To protect yourself, avoid contractors who demand full payment upfront. Instead, negotiate a payment plan tied to specific project milestones. This ensures the contractor stays motivated to complete each phase to your satisfaction while giving you peace of mind that your investment is secure.

Red Flag # 5: Offers a deal too good to be true (it probably is)

An unusually low bid for your deck project might seem like a dream come true, but it’s often a red flag that could lead to major headaches. Contractors who significantly undercut the market rate may do so by cutting corners—using cheap materials, hiring unskilled labor, or skipping essential steps like obtaining permits. While the upfront cost may look appealing, this approach often results in poor-quality work that requires costly repairs or replacements later. Imagine saving money initially, only to discover warped boards or structural issues a few months after completion.

Low bids can also indicate that the contractor hasn’t fully grasped the project’s scope or is underquoting deliberately to win the job. This tactic might leave you facing unexpected change orders or hidden fees that push your budget far beyond what you initially planned. For instance, a contractor might leave out critical details like finishing costs or proper drainage solutions, leaving you to cover the difference mid-project.

To protect your investment, don’t base your decision solely on price. Instead, compare bids carefully, ensuring they include all necessary details and materials. Verify the contractor’s experience, references, and reputation, and always ask for a written contract that outlines the full scope of work to avoid surprises.

Red Flag # 6: Poor communication

When a contractor struggles to communicate effectively, it’s a red flag that could spell trouble for your renovation project. Poor communication—such as delayed responses, vague updates, or a lack of transparency—can lead to serious misunderstandings about the project’s scope, timeline, and budget.

Imagine agreeing to one vision for your deck, only to find that it was interpreted completely differently, resulting in delays, extra costs, and frustration. Contractors who fail to communicate well often lack organization, making it harder to address challenges or ensure the project stays on track.

Strong communication is vital for resolving issues quickly and keeping everyone aligned on the project’s goals. A contractor who is open, clear, and responsive builds trust, ensuring you’re always informed and confident in the progress. Conversely, poor communication can leave you feeling out of the loop and anxious about the final result. To avoid these pitfalls, choose a contractor who prioritizes transparency and values your input—it’s a key ingredient for a smooth and successful renovation.

Qualities of Reliable Deck Builders to Look For

It’s important to note that most deck builders are legit and take their business very seriously. These are some telltale signs that you’ve partnered with a good one:

• Clear Communication. A reliable contractor responds promptly to questions and concerns and consistently updates throughout the project.
• Detailed Proposals. A trustworthy deck builder offers a written contract outlining the scope, materials, costs, and timelines.
• Proper Licensing and Insurance. Partner with a contractor you can trust. They will possess a valid license and carry adequate liability insurance. They will also comply with local building codes and regulations.
• Positive Client Reviews. A good Seattle deck builder will have a track record of satisfied customers and glowing testimonials. In fact, they will be proud to share past work with you.
• Transparent Pricing. A reliable deck builder provides competitive but realistic bids with no hidden fees. They will offer clear breakdowns of material and labor costs.
• Quality Materials. A good deck contractor won’t skimp on materials. They’ll use high-grade materials suitable for the project’s environment and educate clients on material options like wood, composite, or PVC.
• Experience and Expertise. When making such a considerable investment, you’ll want to see a deck builder who demonstrates knowledge of different deck designs and construction techniques. Find a deck builder with years of experience building decks in various settings.
• Focus on Safety. Safety matters. Find a contractor who follows safety standards for railings, stairs, and structural integrity and complies with local building codes.
• Professionalism. A trustworthy deck contractor shows up on time and respects your property. They also maintain a clean and organized worksite.
• Strong Guarantees. If the deck builder offers warranties on materials and workmanship, you know they stand behind their work and are willing to address issues after the project is completed.

By keeping these qualities in mind, you can confidently select a deck builder who will deliver a reliable, beautiful, and long-lasting outdoor space.

Olympic Decks—A Seattle Deck Builder You Can Trust!

Hiring the right deck contractor is the foundation of a successful and stress-free deck-building experience. Recognizing the red flags of unreliable contractors and seeking out the qualities of reputable professionals can save you time, money, and frustration. Choosing a contractor who communicates, provides detailed proposals, and prioritizes safety and quality will make your project successful.

At Olympic Decks, we pride ourselves on being Seattle’s trusted deck builders with years of experience and a commitment to excellence. Whether you need a new deck, expert deck resurfacing, or a pergola with a louvered roof, we’re here to bring your vision to life. Contact us today to start building the outdoor space you’ve always dreamed of!