Why do you need such a large deposit before starting my remodel?

Illustrative — not a real business

The deposit covers real, upfront costs — specifically, ordering custom materials like cabinets or windows that often require payment before fabrication even begins, and reserving your slot in our schedule several weeks or months out. Many states legally cap contractor deposits, often at 10 percent of the total contract price or a set dollar amount, whichever is less — we will tell you the specific limit that applies here, and any legitimate contractor should know and follow it without you having to ask. Beyond the initial deposit, the remaining balance is paid in stages tied to completed milestones — framing complete, rough-in inspection passed, substantial completion — never as one lump sum due partway through with most of the work still ahead. A red flag worth knowing regardless of who you hire: a contractor asking for 50 percent or more upfront, refusing to put a payment schedule in a written contract, or pressuring you to pay in cash only, are each signs worth walking away from. Protect yourself by always getting the full payment schedule in the written contract before signing, and never pay the final balance until you've done a walkthrough and are satisfied with the completed work.