Short answer
Define the exact work first. Check the applicable Texas trade license, then confirm local registration, permit, and inspection rules for the property. Compare detailed written bids, verify the contracting business and insurance information, read lien and payment terms, and keep every project record.
Which license or local record should I check?
Ask who will hold the contract and who will perform each regulated part of the work. Match the name and license number on the proposal to the current state record. Then ask the local permitting office what registration, permit, and inspection rules apply at the property address.
| Work | First record to check | What to match |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical | TDLR license search | Electrical contractor number, status, and associated license holder |
| Heating and air conditioning | TDLR air-conditioning and refrigeration records | Contractor license, class, endorsement, company, and status |
| Plumbing | Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners public search | Responsible Master Plumber, company association, status, and insurance record |
| General remodeling or roofing | City or county permitting office | Local registration, permit responsibility, inspections, and the licensed trades used |
| Mold assessment or remediation | TDLR mold license search | The license type must fit assessment or remediation work |
Source note: A directory listing, business registration, or local permit is not a substitute for a required trade license. Check each record that applies to the actual scope.
Compare written scope, not just the total
Get more than one written bid when the project allows it. Each proposal should identify the contracting business, the work and exclusions, materials, allowances, permit responsibility, schedule, cleanup, warranty, payment milestones, and change-order process.
Texas contractor proposal checklist
- The legal or assumed business name matches the contract and current records.
- Required state trade license numbers appear on the proposal.
- The city or county permit responsibility is assigned in writing.
- Materials, quantities, allowances, and exclusions are specific.
- Payments are tied to written milestones instead of calendar dates alone.
- Changes require a priced written change order before the changed work begins.
- Cleanup, inspections, closeout documents, and warranties are defined.
Read Texas contract and lien terms carefully
The Texas Attorney General advises homeowners to avoid blank contract spaces, keep copies of every signed document, and make sure the contract states what will be done and when it will begin and end. Texas homestead improvement and mechanic's lien rules can affect the property. Ask a qualified Texas attorney about any lien, financing, or legal term you do not understand before signing.
Ask for current insurance information
Request a current certificate that names the same business shown on the contract. Ask how liability coverage and workers' compensation apply to employees and subcontractors on the project. A certificate is not a warranty, and insurance does not replace licensing, permits, or a complete written contract.
Slow down after a storm
Storm pressure creates an opening for rushed contracts and incomplete repairs. Texas Department of Insurance guidance says to document damage, prevent additional damage when it is safe, save receipts, get more than one estimate, check references, and avoid full payment before completion. Coordinate permanent repairs with the insurer when a claim is involved.
Sources
Primary and authoritative sources checked for this guide.
- How to Avoid Home Improvement ScamsOffice of the Attorney General of Texas. Checked July 23, 2026.Supports: Written bids and contracts; Lien cautions; Payment and complaint guidance.
- Air Conditioning and Refrigeration ContractorsTexas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Checked July 23, 2026.Supports: Texas air-conditioning contractor licensing; License search.
- Electricians Consumer ProtectionTexas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Checked July 23, 2026.Supports: Electrical contractor license checks; Bid and payment guidance.
- Find-a-PlumberTexas State Board of Plumbing Examiners. Checked July 23, 2026.Supports: Texas plumbing license lookup.
- Hail Damage to Your Home or Car? What to Do NextTexas Department of Insurance. Checked July 23, 2026.Supports: Storm documentation; Repair estimates; Payment cautions.