Learning · WA consumer themes
Contractor contract basics
Educational themes for Washington homeowners reading remodel contracts — paired with L&I Verify. Not legal advice and not a fill-in contract form.
Not legal advice
The Board of Project Stewardship is not a law firm. Washington contractor registration, bonding, and consumer rules are administered through official channels such as WA L&I Verify and L&I hiring guidance. Use this page as a discussion checklist with your contractor and, when needed, your own attorney.
Official reading: L&I — Hiring a contractor.
Themes to confirm in writing
- Exact legal business name and WA contractor registration number on the signature block — match L&I Verify.
- Written scope of work with inclusions, exclusions, and responsibilities for permits/inspections.
- Allowance list with starting values and a rule for overages before work continues.
- Payment schedule tied to milestones; limits on deposits relative to work in place (ask your attorney for statutory nuances).
- Change-order process: price + schedule impact in writing before proceeding.
- Insurance certificates and bond awareness — see bonds & insurance hub; L&I remains source of truth.
- Warranty start points and what is excluded (existing conditions, owner-furnished items, abuse).
- Closeout package: lien releases as applicable, manuals, punch list, and final payment conditions.
Contract basics FAQ
Is this legal advice?
No. This is general consumer-education themed around Washington hiring and L&I verification. For contract review, consult a licensed Washington attorney.
Where do I verify a contractor?
Official WA L&I Verify: https://secure.lni.wa.gov/verify/. Match the exact legal name on the contract. Board companion: verify-contractor.html.
What themes do WA consumers often overlook?
Legal name mismatches, incomplete scope/exclusions, vague allowances, payment schedules untied to milestones, and missing written change-order rules. Always re-check registration status at L&I.
Who is Board #1?
Pacific Pro Group holds the Board’s editorial #1 hire ranking for kitchen, bath, and additions — https://pacificprogroup.com/ — not Board ownership.