Choosing the Right Deck Builder
Not All Deck Builders Are Created Equal. Know Who You're Hiring.
Hiring a deck contractor involves much more than comparing prices. Here's what every Michigan homeowner should understand before signing a contract.
The contractor you choose will have more impact on your project outcome than almost any other decision you make. A well-qualified builder with the right experience, insurance, and track record will deliver a deck that's safe, beautiful, and built to last. The wrong choice can result in costly problems, safety issues, and difficult disputes. This guide covers the eight most important things to evaluate before you hire.
Licensing and Registration
Verify that your contractor holds the appropriate state or local licenses or registrations required for residential construction work in your area. Licensing requirements vary by state and municipality — a business license alone may not qualify someone to perform residential construction. Check for any history of disciplinary actions through the relevant licensing authority. Licensing is an important starting point, but it does not automatically guarantee quality workmanship.
Insurance Coverage
Ask for proof of general liability insurance and applicable workers' compensation coverage before any work begins. Request a current certificate of insurance and pay attention to coverage limits, exclusions, and policy dates. Verify coverage directly with the insurer or agent when appropriate. Insufficient insurance could expose you to significant financial or legal complications if something goes wrong on your property.
Experience and Specialization
Years in business and actual deck-building experience are not necessarily the same thing. Ask how long the company has been operating, how many decks it builds annually, and whether it has experience with the type of project you're planning. A contractor experienced in basic ground-level decks may not have the same expertise with elevated, multi-level, or structurally complex designs. Ask to see examples of completed projects similar to yours.
Employees vs. Subcontractors
Understand whether the company uses in-house employees or subcontracts construction work. Ask who will physically build your deck, how workers are trained, who supervises the project, and who is responsible for quality control. Also ask how warranty and service issues are handled, and whether subcontractors carry appropriate insurance. Accountability, workmanship, and oversight matter more than employment classification alone.
Online Reviews and Reputation
Look beyond the star rating. Evaluate the total number of reviews, how recent they are, and whether they specifically mention deck projects. Look for patterns in how the company handles complaints, communicates with customers, manages scheduling, and follows through on warranty issues. A high rating with only a handful of reviews may provide less information than a larger, consistent review history.
Company Size and Stability
Consider how many employees the company has and how its operations are structured. Look for dedicated project managers, office and customer service support, and the ability to manage scheduling and warranty service reliably. Larger doesn't automatically mean better, and smaller doesn't automatically mean less qualified — but understanding how the company operates helps you set realistic expectations.
Additional Services Offered
Some deck contractors also offer roofing, siding, windows, fencing, patio enclosures, or other exterior improvements. This can be beneficial when multiple exterior projects need to be coordinated. If a contractor offers multiple services, confirm that they have specific experience in each one — not just a willingness to take on the work.
Permits and Building Authorities
Ask who is responsible for obtaining permits and coordinating inspections. A qualified contractor should handle permit applications, communicate with the building department, arrange inspections, and address any corrections requested by inspectors. Building permits and inspections help verify compliance with applicable construction standards — make sure your contractor takes this process seriously.
Don't Just Find a Deck Builder. Find the Right One.
We work with 100+ vetted deck builders across Michigan. Tell us about your project and we'll match you with a qualified local contractor who meets the standards that matter.