A contractor walkthrough might feel casual. A quick look around, a few measurements, some notes on a tablet. But in the Denver Metro area, this meeting is one of the most important moments in your entire remodel, addition, ADU, or custom build.

With Denver’s mix of:

• Older homes (1940s–1970s construction)
• Expansive soils
• Strict zoning and permitting
• Rapid weather swings
• Neighborhood-specific rules

…the questions you ask during a walkthrough can make or break your project.

Most homeowners focus on finishes and pricing too early. Many miss the questions that actually protect them from surprises.

Here’s a Denver-specific checklist of what to ask during a contractor walkthrough; questions most homeowners forget, but shouldn’t.

1. “What Do You See That Could Become a Problem in Denver Homes Like Mine?”

This is the most revealing question you can ask.

An experienced Denver contractor should immediately mention things like:

• Foundation movement or signs of expansive soil
• Older electrical panels (60–100 amp service is common)
• Outdated plumbing (galvanized or cast iron)
• Low basement ceiling heights affecting code compliance
• Drainage and grading issues common along the Front Range
• Snow load and wind considerations

If the answer is “Looks easy” without explanation. That’s a red flag.

What you want: A contractor who anticipates Denver-specific issues before construction starts, not one who discovers them mid-project.

2. “What Might We Discover Once Walls or Floors Are Opened?”

Many Denver homes hide surprises, especially in basements and additions.

Ask:

• What assumptions are being made?
• What hidden issues are common in homes this age?
• How do you handle unexpected findings like asbestos, structural changes, or outdated utilities?

This helps you understand risk and contingency planning, not just best-case scenarios.

3. “How Will Permits and Inspections Be Handled?”

Denver-area permitting can vary widely by County:

• Denver 
• Lakewood
• Aurora
• Arvada
• Westminster
• Centennial
• Englewood

Ask directly:

• Who pulls permits?
• Which department has jurisdiction?
• How long do permits typically take for this scope?
• How are inspection delays handled?

A contractor familiar with Denver Metro will already know the process and the bottlenecks.

4. “What’s Included and What’s Not?”

This is where many Denver homeowners get surprised.

Ask for clarity on:

• Permit fees
• Xcel Energy or utility upgrades
• Structural engineering
• Soil reports (sometimes required)
• Egress window requirements for basements
• Final inspection and sign-off
• Demo and disposal (especially for older materials)

If it’s not written down, it’s not included.

Pro tip: Ask the contractor to explain exclusions just as clearly as inclusions.

5. “Who Will I Communicate With During Construction?”

Don’t assume the person doing the walkthrough will manage your project.

Ask:

• Who is my day-to-day contact?
• How often will I get updates?
• What’s the expected response time?
• How are questions handled once construction starts?

In a fast-paced Denver market, communication matters as much as craftsmanship.

6. “What’s a Realistic Timeline and What Could Delay It?”

Denver projects are impacted by more than just scheduling.

Ask about:

• Weather delays (snow, freeze-thaw cycles)
• Material lead times
• Inspection availability
• Utility coordination
• Subcontractor scheduling

A professional contractor will explain both the ideal timeline and the risks, not just the optimistic version.

7. “How Do You Handle Changes After We Start?”

Changes happen, especially once construction is underway.

Ask:

• How are change orders documented?
• How is pricing approved?
• Do changes affect the schedule?
• Are verbal changes allowed?

You want a clear, written change-order process, not surprise invoices.

8. “How Will You Protect My Home During Construction?”

This is critical for Denver remodels where families are often living in the home.

Ask about:

• Dust control and air quality
• Floor and furniture protection
• Weather protection during openings
• Site cleanliness
• Safety for kids and pets

A professional contractor plans for daily life, not just the finished product.

9. “What Does a Successful Project Look Like to You?”

This question reveals a contractor’s priorities.

Listen for answers about:

• Client experience
• Communication
• Quality standards
• Final walkthrough expectations
• Warranty and follow-up

If success is defined only by “finishing the job,” keep looking.

10. “What Do You Need From Me to Keep This Project Smooth?”

Great Denver projects are partnerships.

This clarifies:

• Decision timelines
• Material selections
• Access requirements
• Payment milestones
• Communication expectations

Clear expectations on both sides prevent delays and stress.

11. “Can You Walk Me Through the Proposal Before I Sign?”

A walkthrough isn’t complete until you fully understand the proposal.

Ask for:

• Line-by-line explanation
• Allowances and assumptions
• Payment schedule
• Warranty details
• Final inspection and closeout process

If a contractor rushes this step, they’ll rush others too.

Final Thoughts for Denver Homeowners

In the Denver Metro area, a contractor walkthrough isn’t just about measurements, it’s about understanding risk, code, and communication.

The right contractor welcomes questions.
The wrong one avoids them.

The more clarity you gain upfront, the fewer surprises you’ll face once construction begins.

Ready to Schedule a Denver Metro Walkthrough?

If you’re planning a remodel, addition, ADU, or custom project in the Denver Metro area and want a walkthrough focused on transparency, proactive planning, and long-term value, we’d be happy to help.

Contact Building While Giving today at (720)968-7874 to schedule a professional walkthrough and move forward with confidence.