6 Essential Questions to Ask Contractors Before Hiring

Hiring a waterproofing contractor in South Africa can be confusing and risky if you do not know what to look for. With so many contractors making bold promises, it is easy to miss crucial details that protect your property and your wallet. Choosing the wrong person could leave you with recurring leaks, costly repairs, or even disputes over unfinished work.

You deserve the peace of mind that comes with working with a skilled, reputable professional. This list reveals the specific questions you must ask before signing any contract. Each insight helps you avoid hidden risks and find a contractor who truly meets South African standards. Get ready for practical steps that put you in control, so you can hire with confidence and protect your investment.

1. What Is Your Waterproofing Experience and History?
2. Are You Fully Licensed and Insured for South Africa?
3. Can You Provide Recent References or Examples of Work?
4. What Materials and Methods Will Be Used?
5. Do You Offer a Written Guarantee or Warranty?
6. What Is the Detailed Timeline and Quotation Process?

Quick Summary

Key Message	Explanation
1. Verify Contractor’s Experience	Ensure your chosen contractor has relevant experience for your specific waterproofing needs, demonstrating previous successes in similar projects.
2. Confirm Licensing and Insurance	Always check if the contractor is fully licensed and insured to protect yourself from potential legal and financial issues during the project.
3. Request Recent References	Obtain and contact recent references to evaluate the contractor’s performance on similar waterproofing projects, focusing on quality and client satisfaction.
4. Clarify Materials and Methods	Request detailed information on the materials and methods to ensure the contractor has a sound, tailored approach that meets your waterproofing requirements.
5. Obtain Written Warranties	Ensure you receive a written warranty covering both workmanship and materials, protecting your investment against future issues after completion.

1. What Is Your Waterproofing Experience and History?

A contractor’s track record speaks volumes about their ability to handle your waterproofing project successfully. Experience isn’t just about years in business; it’s about the specific waterproofing challenges they’ve tackled and solved.

When you ask about experience, you’re really asking: Can this contractor handle my particular problem? A contractor who specialises in basement damp proofing might not be the best fit for roof waterproofing work. Conversely, someone with industrial waterproofing expertise brings specialised knowledge that matters for complex projects.

Why experience matters:

Proven ability to diagnose water intrusion problems accurately
Knowledge of climate-specific challenges in Gauteng and the Western Cape
Understanding of different building materials and construction methods
Ability to anticipate issues before they become expensive problems
Experience with product application and long-term durability

Contractors across South Africa with 20 to 40 years of combined experience demonstrate the kind of track record worth investigating. These professionals have worked through countless scenarios and learned what truly works.

Don’t settle for vague answers like “We’ve been around a long time.” Instead, dig deeper and ask for specific examples. Request details about similar projects they’ve completed, the challenges they faced, and the outcomes achieved.

A contractor’s experience in your region and building type directly influences project success and warranty reliability.

Ask for references from projects completed within the last three to five years. Recent work matters more than ancient history because techniques and products evolve. When you contact these references, ask about the durability of the work and whether any issues emerged after completion.

Certification status matters too. Many reputable waterproofing product manufacturers require contractors to complete certification programmes. This training ensures proper application methods and material compatibility.

Professional tip: Request a portfolio of before-and-after photographs from residential properties similar to yours, along with at least three verifiable references from work completed in the past two years in your local area.

2. Are You Fully Licensed and Insured for South Africa?

Licensing and insurance form the foundation of contractor legitimacy in South Africa. Without these credentials, you’re exposing yourself to significant financial and legal risk if something goes wrong.

When a contractor holds proper licences and insurance, it means they’ve been vetted by professional bodies and comply with South African regulations. This isn’t just paperwork; it’s your protection.

Why this matters for your project:

Protects you legally if work causes damage to your property
Ensures contractor meets financial and performance standards
Verifies compliance with South African building regulations
Guarantees access to compensation if disputes arise
Confirms professional accountability and credibility

The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) is South Africa’s primary regulatory body for construction contractors. Many contractors operating above certain project values must register with the CIDB. Beyond that, professional indemnity and liability insurance protects both you and the contractor during the project.

Insurance companies like Santam and OUTsurance vet contractors thoroughly to maintain their approved lists. These insurers ensure contractors carry appropriate coverage such as Contractor’s All Risk policies.

What you should verify:

Current CIDB registration (where applicable to project value)
Active professional indemnity insurance
Liability coverage with sufficient limits
Proof of contractor’s insurance certificates
Registration with relevant professional bodies

Unlicensed contractors may offer lower quotes, but one accident or dispute can cost you far more than the savings.

Ask contractors to provide copies of their insurance certificates and registration documents. Don’t accept promises or vague assurances. Request verification directly from insurers if needed. This takes minimal time but provides enormous peace of mind.

Pay attention to insurance expiry dates. Some contractors maintain valid licences but let insurance lapse between projects. Current credentials matter more than historical documentation.

Professional tip: Request written copies of current CIDB registration (if applicable), professional indemnity insurance, and liability coverage before signing any agreement, and verify these directly with the relevant bodies or insurance providers.

3. Can You Provide Recent References or Examples of Work?

References and work examples are your window into how a contractor actually performs on real projects. They reveal quality, reliability, and whether the contractor delivers on promises.

A contractor unwilling to share references or examples should raise red flags immediately. Established professionals welcome the opportunity to showcase their work because they know it demonstrates their capabilities.

Why references matter:

Verify actual project outcomes and quality standards
Confirm contractor met deadlines and budgets
Reveal how contractor handled challenges or changes
Show whether clients remain satisfied long-term
Identify any patterns of problems or complaints

When requesting references, ask specifically for recent work similar to your project. A waterproofing job completed five years ago may not reflect current techniques or materials. Look for projects completed within the last two to three years in your local area, ideally within Gauteng or the Western Cape.

Portfolios and detailed case studies demonstrating completed work help you visualise the contractor’s capabilities. Before-and-after photographs provide concrete evidence of quality. When reviewing portfolios, pay attention to the types of properties and the scope of work undertaken.

What to look for in references:

Projects matching your property type and waterproofing challenge
Timeframe within the last 2-3 years
Willingness of previous clients to speak openly
Long-term satisfaction with the work completed
Any warranty issues or follow-up work required

A contractor’s portfolio and client testimonials reveal their true capabilities far better than marketing claims.

When contacting references, ask specific questions about their experience. Did the contractor arrive on schedule? Were there unexpected costs? How has the waterproofing held up? Did any issues emerge after completion? Listen carefully to their tone and level of satisfaction.

Don’t just accept names provided by the contractor. Ask if you can see examples of work on properties similar to yours. Some contractors maintain online portfolios or case studies showcasing their projects across different building types and waterproofing challenges.

Professional tip: Request at least three references from waterproofing projects completed in the last two years, and contact each reference to ask about durability, timeline adherence, and any post-completion issues that arose.

4. What Materials and Methods Will Be Used?

The materials and methods a contractor chooses directly impact how long your waterproofing solution lasts and whether it actually solves your problem. Different situations call for different approaches, and a competent contractor should explain their choice clearly.

Don’t accept vague answers like “We’ll use the best products available.” You need specifics about what exactly will be applied, how it will be applied, and why that approach suits your particular situation.

Why this matters:

Quality materials determine waterproofing durability and longevity
Proper application methods ensure effectiveness and warranty compliance
Incorrect materials or techniques can waste money and fail prematurely
Different building types and damage patterns require tailored solutions
Compliance with South African standards protects your investment

A comprehensive contractor method statement outlines step-by-step procedures including materials, equipment, and quality control measures to be employed throughout the project. This transparency ensures you understand exactly what will happen on your property.

Reliable contractors specify product brands and types, not just general categories. They explain why a particular membrane, sealant, or coating suits your damp walls, basement, or roof. They reference industry standards and South African Bureau of Standards compliance.

What to ask about:

Specific product names, brands, and technical specifications
Why this approach is suitable for your particular problem
How long the materials are expected to last
Warranty coverage on both materials and workmanship
Whether methods comply with National Building Regulations
Surface preparation requirements before application

A contractor who can’t explain their material choices clearly probably doesn’t understand them well enough.

Request written documentation detailing the entire process. This should cover surface preparation, application methods, drying times, and follow-up inspections. Professional contractors welcome this request because it protects both parties.

Ask whether the contractor uses materials from reputable manufacturers with proven track records in South Africa. Ask about product certifications and performance guarantees. Cheaper materials might save money upfront but cost far more when replacements become necessary within years rather than decades.

Professional tip: Request a detailed written method statement before hiring that specifies all materials by brand name and type, application procedures, timeline, and compliance with South African building standards and regulations.

5. Do You Offer a Written Guarantee or Warranty?

A written warranty is your legal protection if something goes wrong after the work is completed. Without it, you have no recourse if problems emerge weeks or months later.

Contractors who stand behind their work willingly provide written guarantees. Those who hesitate or avoid giving you paperwork should concern you greatly.

Why written warranties matter:

Provide legal recourse if defects appear after completion
Define exactly what is covered and for how long
Specify what the contractor will do to remedy problems
Protect you under the Consumer Protection Act
Ensure contractor accountability for workmanship and materials

A formal construction warranty agreement defines terms, coverage duration, and claim procedures whilst complying with South African law. This document should specify whether the guarantee covers workmanship only or includes materials as well.

Warranties typically range from two to ten years depending on the work type and contractor. Waterproofing work should carry substantial warranty periods because water damage repair is expensive. A contractor offering only a one-year guarantee may not have confidence in their work.

Key warranty elements to verify:

Specific duration (in years)
What is covered (workmanship, materials, or both)
Exclusions or limitations
Claim procedures and timeframes
Contractor contact information for warranty claims
Whether it transfers if you sell the property

A written warranty separates contractors who stand behind their work from those hoping you won’t call back with problems.

Ask for the warranty in writing before signing any contract. Review it carefully and ask questions about anything unclear. Some warranties have conditions requiring you to maintain the property in specific ways. Others exclude damage from extreme weather or third-party interference.

Verify that the warranty complies with South African Consumer Protection Act requirements. The contractor should be able to explain exactly what happens if you discover a problem within the warranty period.

Don’t accept verbal promises about warranties. Get everything documented. If a contractor becomes uncontactable after work is complete, a written warranty document provides your only recourse through legal channels.

Professional tip: Request a written warranty document at least one week before signing the contract, review it thoroughly, and clarify any exclusions or conditions with the contractor in writing before work begins.

6. What Is the Detailed Timeline and Quotation Process?

A detailed timeline and itemised quotation reveal how seriously a contractor takes your project. Vague quotes and unclear timelines often lead to cost overruns, delays, and disappointment.

Before hiring anyone, you need written documentation showing exactly what work will be done, how much it will cost, and when it will be completed.

Why clear timelines and quotations matter:

Prevent misunderstandings about project scope and costs
Protect you from hidden charges and surprise expenses
Establish accountability for meeting deadlines
Allow fair comparison between multiple contractors
Provide written evidence if disputes arise

When requesting quotes, provide detailed information about your waterproofing problem. Describe the affected areas, visible damage, and any previous unsuccessful repair attempts. The more information you give, the more accurate the quote will be.

Itemised written quotes should include scope of work, timelines, payment terms, and warranty details for transparent project planning. This enables you to compare contractors fairly and understand exactly what you are paying for.

A quality quotation breaks costs into specific line items rather than one lump sum. You should see separate costs for surface preparation, waterproofing materials, labour, sealing, and any additional work required.

What quotations must include:

Detailed scope of work with specific areas covered
Materials to be used with brand names and quantities
Labour costs and estimated timeline for completion
Payment schedule and deposit requirements
Any exclusions or additional costs that might apply
Warranty terms and conditions

A contractor who provides a detailed written quote respects your intelligence and protects both of you with clarity.

Timelines should specify start dates, key milestones, and completion dates. Ask what could delay the project and how the contractor handles weather interruptions or unexpected structural issues discovered during work.

Request quotes from at least three contractors. Compare them carefully, but remember that the lowest price is not always the best value. A contractor charging significantly less may be cutting corners on materials or preparation.

Ask whether the quotation is fixed or subject to change. Fixed quotes provide certainty, whilst variable quotes might increase if unexpected problems emerge.

Professional tip: Obtain written quotations from at least three contractors that itemise all costs, materials, timelines, and include warranty details, then compare them carefully before making your final selection.

Below is a comprehensive table summarising key considerations and advice for selecting a qualified waterproofing contractor as discussed in the article.

Aspect	Key Points	Significance
Experience and History	Evaluate their past accomplishments, request project references, and verify their regional expertise.	Ensures capability to handle the unique challenges of your specific project.
Licensing and Insurance	Confirm CIDB registration, professional indemnity, and liability insurance.	Protects against legal and financial risks during and after project execution.
References and Examples	Request recent references and visual examples of completed projects.	Reveals reliability, quality of work, and client satisfaction.
Materials and Methods	Inquire about specific product names, application techniques, and compliance with South African standards.	Guarantees long-lasting and effective waterproofing solutions tailored to your needs.
Warranty and Guarantee	Acquire a written warranty with clear details on coverage, exclusions, and claim procedures.	Provides protection and recourse for post-work defects or issues.
Timeline and Quotation	Obtain detailed, itemised quotations and clear project timelines from multiple contractors for comparison.	Helps to establish expectations, avoid hidden costs, and ensure timely completion of work.

Make Informed Decisions with Trusted Waterproofing Experts

Choosing the right contractor can be daunting, especially when it comes to protecting your home or business from costly water damage. This article highlights crucial questions you must ask to ensure your contractor offers the experience, licencing, materials, and warranties that guarantee peace of mind. Don’t leave your property vulnerable by settling for uncertain promises or unclear quotations.

Take control of your project today with Pro Waterproofing, where professionalism meets reliability. Explore our expert guidance on contractor selection and get tailored quotes that clarify every detail from timelines to warranties. Visit our contact page now to connect with dependable waterproofing specialists in South Africa. Protect your investment with confidence by choosing contractors who stand behind their work and understand your unique waterproofing needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I ask about a contractor’s waterproofing experience?

A contractor’s waterproofing experience is crucial for the success of your project. Ask about their specific history with similar challenges and the outcomes of past projects. For instance, inquire about specific waterproofing methods they’ve used on properties like yours.

How can I verify if a contractor is fully licensed and insured?

To verify a contractor’s licensing and insurance, request copies of their current credentials before hiring. Check their registration with relevant professional bodies and ensure they have active liability coverage, protecting you from potential financial risks during the project.

What types of recent references or examples of work should I request?

Request references from waterproofing projects completed within the last two to three years, focusing on work similar to your needs. Ensure the contractor can share before-and-after photographs or detailed case studies that demonstrate their capabilities on comparable properties.

Why is it important to know what materials and methods will be used in the waterproofing?

Understanding the materials and methods ensures the longevity and effectiveness of the waterproofing solution. Ask the contractor to provide specific product names and application techniques they plan to use, so you can ensure compliance with building standards.

How can I ensure I receive a proper written warranty for the work?

Request a written warranty that clearly outlines coverage, duration, and claim procedures before you sign any contract. Ensure the warranty specifies both workmanship and materials, providing you with legal recourse if issues arise after completion.

What details should I look for in the contractor’s timeline and quotation process?

Look for a detailed itemised quotation that breaks down costs and includes a clear timeline for the project. Ensure it outlines specific tasks, payment terms, and any potential additional costs to avoid misunderstandings and protect your investment.