How to Vet a Deck Building Company Before You Commit: 7 Red Flags to Watch For
Choosing the right deck building company can make or break your home improvement dreams. Whether you’re adding a multi-tiered deck with built-in lighting or a simple space to enjoy a summer barbecue, a deck is an investment in your family’s comfort, lifestyle, and property value. But before you sign on the dotted line, it’s critical to make sure you’re hiring a professional team with a proven track record — not just someone with a pickup truck and a toolbelt.
With more than 20 years of remodeling experience, Evergreen Home Exteriors has seen its share of well-done projects — and unfortunately, a lot of poorly executed ones that required costly corrections.
1. No License, Bond, or Insurance
This is a major red flag and, frankly, a deal-breaker. A legitimate deck building company should be fully licensed to operate in your state or locality. Bonding provides financial protection to you if the contractor fails to complete the job or meet other contractual obligations, and insurance (especially general liability and workers’ compensation) protects you from liability if a worker is injured on your property or if your home is damaged during the project.
Why It Matters:
Without these protections, you could be left footing the bill for damages, injuries, or unfinished work — not to mention, it’s often illegal to operate without them.
What to Do:
Ask for up-to-date documentation before work begins. Any reputable company will gladly provide this upon request. If they hesitate, that’s your cue to walk away.
2. Vague or Incomplete Contracts
If a company wants to start working with only a verbal agreement or a handshake, that’s a huge red flag. Contracts protect both parties and should include clear details such as scope of work, timeline, materials, payment schedule, and warranty information.
Why It Matters:
A vague contract creates confusion and opens the door to miscommunication, cost overruns, or even legal disputes. Clear terms prevent misunderstandings and hold everyone accountable.
What to Do:
Make sure everything — and we mean everything — is in writing. Review each clause carefully and don’t be afraid to ask questions or request changes if something doesn’t look right. A trustworthy company will work with you to clarify.
3. No Portfolio or References
Any established deck building company should be able to show you examples of its past work. If they don’t have a website, photo gallery, or client testimonials, or they dodge when asked for references, take that as a major warning sign.
Why It Matters:
You need to know that they’ve done similar work successfully in the past. Quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and customer satisfaction are key indicators of a professional team.
What to Do:
Ask for three recent references and photos of completed deck projects. Even better — if possible, ask if you can visit a finished job in person. Online reviews can also provide valuable insight into a company’s reliability and professionalism.
4. Pushy Sales Tactics or Unrealistic Promises
Some contractors might offer “too-good-to-be-true” deals or pressure you to sign quickly, claiming their pricing is only good for the day. Others might promise lightning-fast turnaround times that seem out of sync with the scope of your project.
Why It Matters:
Pushy sales tactics and exaggerated claims often mask deeper problems: lack of transparency, poor planning, or substandard materials. Quality craftsmanship takes time, and prices shouldn’t hinge on split-second decisions.
What to Do:
Trust your gut. If the pressure feels off, ask for time to review the contract and compare bids. A reputable deck builder won’t mind — and if they do, that’s all the more reason to say no.
5. No Design or Engineering Insight
Deck construction isn’t just about nailing boards together — it’s about engineering safety, structural integrity, and seamless integration with your home’s architecture. If a contractor doesn’t offer any design support or shrugs off questions about code compliance, that’s a sign they’re cutting corners.
Why It Matters:
Decks must comply with local building codes and often require permits and inspections. A deck that isn’t properly engineered could sag, warp, or even collapse over time — potentially leading to injuries or property damage.
What to Do:
Look for a company that approaches your project with an engineering mindset — like Evergreen Home Exteriors. We consider soil load, weight distribution, waterproofing, and more. Ask if they include permitting in their process, and ensure they follow all local code requirements.
6. Subcontracting Without Oversight
Many companies hire subcontractors to complete specialized parts of a job — and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. But when a deck builder hands off the entire project without any supervision or quality control, it becomes a serious concern.
Why It Matters:
You hired one company for their reputation and expertise — not a revolving door of unknown workers. Without supervision, you can’t guarantee that the work meets the original specifications or your expectations.
What to Do:
Ask if the company uses in-house crews or vetted subcontractors. More importantly, ask who will be managing your project day to day. At Evergreen, we pride ourselves on project oversight and communication, ensuring consistent quality from start to finish.
7. No Warranty or After-Service Support
Your new deck should come with a warranty — period. If a builder doesn’t offer one, or if their warranty is difficult to understand or full of exclusions, take caution. Equally concerning is when companies disappear after the final payment is made.
Why It Matters:
Decks endure rain, sun, snow, and foot traffic. Problems might not surface for several months. A reliable company will stand behind its work and be available to fix issues if they arise.
What to Do:
Look for a written warranty that covers materials and labor for a reasonable period. Ask what happens if a board warps or the railing loosens a few months down the line. You deserve peace of mind — and that means knowing help is a phone call away.
Bonus Tip: Check Their Communication Style
This one’s often overlooked, but it’s crucial: How well does the company communicate?
Do they respond quickly to your inquiries? Are they courteous, respectful, and informative? Are they willing to explain technical details or help you understand trade-offs between design options?
Why It Matters:
Deck construction is a collaborative process. You’ll be working closely with your builder for several weeks (sometimes longer), and clear communication makes the experience smoother and less stressful.
What to Do:
Pay attention to your early conversations. A company that listens well, answers thoughtfully, and keeps you informed is far more likely to deliver a satisfying result.
Why Evergreen Home Exteriors is the Right Choice
At Evergreen Home Exteriors, we know that building a deck is about more than just adding outdoor square footage — it’s about creating an extension of your home where your family can gather, relax, and create lifelong memories.
Founded in 1998 by Jon and Anne Marie, our company has always been rooted in family values, engineering excellence, and a commitment to quality. We understand what it means to design and build safe, functional, and inspiring spaces — and we treat your home as if it were our own.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Fully licensed, bonded, and insured
- Detailed contracts and transparent pricing
- In-house teams with professional oversight
- Custom design services and permit handling
- Comprehensive warranties and post-project support
- 20+ years of experience in home remodeling
From concept to completion, Evergreen ensures your project is on time, on budget, and built to last.
Ready to Get Started?
Don’t settle for less when it comes to your home. Choose a deck building company that brings experience, integrity, and craftsmanship to every project.
Evergreen Home Exteriors is here to help you turn your vision into reality — whether you’re dreaming of a cozy wraparound deck or a modern, multi-level retreat. Our expert team will guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your new deck is beautiful, durable, and built with care.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discover how we can bring your outdoor space to life.
Your perfect deck — and your next family gathering — starts here.