Finding a good stucco contractor isn't always easy. You're looking for someone reliable, someone who knows their stuff, and someone who won't disappear halfway through the job. I've been doing this for years here in Beverly Hills, and I've seen it all – the good, the bad, and the downright ugly. So, let's talk about what you need to do to make sure you're hiring the right crew for your home.
Questions to Ask Every Stucco Contractor
You've got to be prepared with some tough questions. Don't be shy; it's your house and your money. Here are the big ones I'd ask:
- Can you provide at least three recent local references? And I mean local, not from some other county. Call them, ask about their experience, if the job finished on time, and if they'd hire the contractor again.
- What kind of stucco system are you recommending for my home, and why? Is it traditional three-coat, one-coat, or EIFS? There are differences, and a good contractor will explain them clearly, especially considering the varied architecture we have, from Spanish Colonial to modern homes in the flats.
- How do you handle water intrusion prevention? This is huge. Stucco failures often start with water getting behind the system. Ask about flashing, weep screeds, and sealants.
- What's your warranty on labor and materials? Get it in writing. A solid warranty shows they stand behind their work.
- What's your process for protecting my property during the job? You don't want stucco splatter on your windows, landscaping, or driveway.
- Are you licensed, bonded, and insured? This isn't optional; it's non-negotiable. Ask for proof of all three.
What to Look For in a Quote
Don't just glance at the bottom line. A good quote is detailed. If it's just a single number, walk away. Here's what you want to see:
- Detailed Scope of Work: It should clearly list everything they're going to do. Surface prep, lath installation, number of stucco coats, finish coat type, color, and any trim or decorative elements.
- Material Specifications: What brand of stucco? What type of lath? What kind of flashing? Specifics matter.
- Timeline: A realistic start and completion date. Weather can affect stucco work, so they should mention that, but there should still be a plan.
- Payment Schedule: Typically, you'll pay a deposit, then progress payments, and a final payment upon satisfactory completion. Be wary of anyone asking for a huge upfront deposit, especially more than 10-20%.
- Inclusions and Exclusions: What's included in the price, and what isn't? Scaffolding? Debris removal? Painting of adjacent trim? Make sure there are no surprises.
Red Flags You Can't Ignore
Some things should make you hit the brakes immediately. Trust your gut on these:
- No License or Insurance: This is a deal-breaker. If they can't prove it, they're not legitimate.
- Cash-Only Deals: This screams