A good chunk of our work is fixing projects that went sideways with someone else. The same five mistakes come up again and again. Here's how to avoid them, whoever you hire.
1. Taking the bid that's way below the others
If three bids land near each other and one is dramatically lower, that bid isn't a deal. It's missing scope. It comes back later as change orders, and by then you can't switch contractors without paying twice. The gap between a licensed contractor and the cheapest bid can run $20,000 to $40,000 on a mid-range kitchen. Compare what's included, not just the bottom line.
2. Letting anyone skip the permit
"We can save you money by skipping the permit" is a red flag, not a favor. In Fairfax, Arlington and Alexandria, moving plumbing, electrical or walls requires one, and unpermitted work surfaces at resale, when it's most expensive to fix. The permit also buys you a county inspector checking the work; that's protection you already paid taxes for.
3. Approving a design they've never actually seen
A quote and a handshake is not a plan. Insist on seeing the space (layout, finishes, colors) before demolition day. Changes on a screen are free; changes mid-build are not. It's why every DFC project starts with a true-to-life 3D walkthrough before we pick up a tool.
4. Paying too much before work happens
A reasonable deposit is normal. Half the project in cash up front is not. Payments should be tied to completed milestones in writing (demo done, rough-in passed inspection, cabinets installed) so the money always follows the work, never the promises.
5. Skipping the 2-minute license check
Virginia lets you verify any contractor's license free at dpor.virginia.gov. Look for a Class A license, the state's highest classification, and ask for a certificate of insurance sent directly from the insurer, not a photocopy. Two minutes of checking beats two years of litigation.
Planning a project this year? Keep this list handy when you're comparing bids, including ours. DFC is Class A licensed and insured, every project is permitted, designed in 3D before we build, and billed by milestone. Get a free estimate or call (703) 596-8375.
