12 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Flooring Installer

A flooring proposal should make the work easier to understand before removal begins. These questions help homeowners compare scope, preparation and accountability instead of choosing from price alone.

1. What exact product is included?

Ask for the manufacturer, collection, color, construction, specifications and warranty. A description such as "waterproof LVP" is not enough to confirm what will be delivered.

2. How was the order quantity calculated?

Request the net measured area, waste allowance and final order quantity. Ask how closets, angles, plank direction, pattern matching and full-carton rounding were handled.

3. What existing flooring will be removed?

Clarify every layer included in removal and disposal. Carpet and pad, glued flooring, tile, tack strip and multiple layers create different labor.

4. How will the subfloor be evaluated?

Ask about moisture, flatness, movement, damage and compatibility. The answer should refer to the selected product's installation instructions—not only a visual opinion.

5. What preparation is included?

The proposal should state whether patching, grinding, securing panels, adhesive removal or moisture protection is included. It should also explain how additional concealed preparation will be documented and priced.

6. Who handles furniture and belongings?

Identify which furniture will be moved, what must be emptied and whether specialty, fragile or oversized items are excluded. Electronics, valuables and contents of cabinets are typically homeowner responsibilities.

7. Who handles appliances and plumbing?

Clarify refrigerators, ranges, dishwashers, toilets, washing machines, gas connections and water lines. Flooring installers may move an appliance without being licensed or responsible to reconnect utilities.

8. How are stairs, transitions and trim handled?

Ask whether stair treads, risers, nosing, reducers, T-moldings, quarter round and baseboard work are included. Confirm color, material and painting responsibilities.

9. What installation method will be used?

The method—floating, glue-down, nail-down, staple-down or stretch-in—should be approved for the product and substrate. Ask about underlayment, adhesive or fasteners.

The National Wood Flooring Association provides detailed wood installation standards, and product manufacturers provide category-specific instructions.

10. What warranties apply?

Separate the manufacturer's product warranty from the installation workmanship warranty. Ask who handles a claim, what documentation must be retained and which maintenance actions could void coverage.

11. What are the schedule and payment terms?

Confirm estimated start, expected duration, material delivery, deposit, progress payments and final payment. Ask what happens if materials are delayed or concealed conditions extend the schedule.

12. How are changes approved?

A change order should describe the added work, price and schedule impact before work continues whenever practical. Avoid open-ended verbal approvals.

Additional verification

Ask for the business name, contact information and applicable insurance documentation. Requirements vary by jurisdiction and project type, so homeowners should verify anything material to their project directly.

Warning signs

Be cautious when a proposal:

• Does not identify the product
• Promises installation without discussing the subfloor
• Treats waterproof flooring as a moisture repair
• Omits stairs, transitions or trim
• Requires unclear payment terms
• Refuses to document changes
• Makes a warranty promise that is not in writing

Compare complete scopes

The lowest number may omit preparation, disposal or accessories that appear later. Compare identical rooms and responsibilities, then evaluate communication and documentation alongside price.

When you are ready, schedule a free in-home estimate and use this list during the consultation.