What Is a Contractor Vetting Process? Here’s How We Do it

When it comes to home renovations, finding the right contractor is like searching for a needle in a haystack. Trust is everything, and at Block, we take that seriously. We know that homeowners often don’t have the time or resources to dig through piles of contractor applications, much less research and vet dozens (or even hundreds) of options. That’s where we step in. Our thorough, multi-week vetting process ensures that only the most reputable and skilled contractors join our network. Let’s dive into how we find and vet these top-notch professionals.

How do you find contractors?

We cast a wide net to discover great contractors, whether they find us or we find them. Here are the three main ways we connect with potential contractors:

1. Inbound Applicants: Many contractors come to us directly. They can submit an application through the Contractor page on the Block website, expressing their interest in joining our network.
2. Outbound Prospecting: We don’t just wait around for applications to roll in. Our team actively searches industry resources and permit databases to spot contractors who are making waves and staying busy. These are the pros who already have a reputation for excellence.
3. Referrals: Sometimes, the best contractors come highly recommended by other contractors, homeowners, or even our own Block employees. When someone comes highly recommended, we take notice.

What is the process for vetting contractors?

Vetting a contractor isn’t a quick and easy process. It’s thorough and takes time because we want to ensure that our homeowners get only the best. Here’s how we do it:

1. Application: It all starts with the contractor submitting an application. This gives us a high-level overview of their business, so we know who we’re dealing with right off the bat.
2. Phone Call: Once we receive an application, we get on the phone with the contractor. This initial screening allows us to tell them more about what it means to be a Block contractor, learn about their business, and make sure we’re on the same page regarding our processes and expectations.
3. Virtual Site Visits: Next, we conduct virtual site visits to the contractor's job sites—sometimes more than one. This isn't just a quick glance. We meticulously evaluate the workmanship, attention to detail, and overall quality of their work through video calls or detailed virtual tours. We also use this opportunity to observe how the contractor interacts with their crew and the homeowner and how they manage the job site, all from a remote perspective.
4. Verification: We conduct a comprehensive background check to verify the contractor’s professional reputation. Additionally, we verify that they have a clean record with the Department of Buildings (no violations within the last five years) and a history free of civil lawsuits. 
5. Documentation: The final step is gathering all the necessary paperwork. We require proof of licensing and insurance.

Personal checklist for contractor vetting

Learn More: How to Prepare for a Site Visit with a Contractor

What requirements do contractors have to meet to join the Block network

Joining the Block network isn’t for just any contractor—it’s for the best of the best. We’ve set the bar high to ensure that every contractor in our network meets our stringent standards, giving homeowners the peace of mind that their renovation project is in capable hands. Here’s what we require:

• Licensed and Insured: First and foremost, contractors must be fully licensed and insured. This ensures they’re operating legally and can provide adequate protection for both homeowners and their property.
• Background Check: We conduct a comprehensive background check to verify the contractor's criminal history and professional reputation. This step further guarantees the safety and trustworthiness of the contractor, something that’s non-negotiable in our book.
• Zero Department of Buildings (DOB) Violations: A clean record is crucial. Contractors must have zero DOB violations within the past five years, demonstrating their commitment to adhering to building codes and regulations. This is about ensuring that they play by the rules and maintain the highest standards of safety and quality.
• No Civil Lawsuits: We also look at the contractor’s history of civil lawsuits. Contractors must have a clean slate in this area, further assuring homeowners that they’re working with a reputable and reliable professional.
• Impeccable Build Quality: We assess contractors’ technical knowledge and construction quality through virtual site visits. These visits allow us to confirm that their work meets our high standards in key areas such as waterproofing, electrical work, tiling, and more. We also require contractors to provide positive homeowner references, solid online reviews (with an average rating of 4.0 or higher), and evidence of completed projects to ensure they have the experience and skills to deliver outstanding results.

How do we support contractors to make sure they are successful?

Getting into the Block network is just the beginning of a contractor's journey with us. We believe in setting our contractors up for success right from the start, so we’ve developed a robust support system that kicks in as soon as they’re onboarded.

• Onboarding Experience: Our onboarding process is thorough and designed to ensure that contractors are fully equipped to meet our standards. We provide them with access to our Builder App, which is packed with digital tools to help them manage their projects effectively. We also hold one-on-one meetings to walk them through the Block process, from coordinating projects on our platform to understanding our quality expectations.
• Ongoing Support: Once onboarded, contractors aren’t left to fend for themselves. They have access to Block’s dedicated contractor growth team throughout the entire renovation process. Whether they need coaching, construction or design expertise, or help resolving an issue, we’re there to assist.
• Feedback Loop: We believe in continuous improvement. That’s why we provide contractors with both quantitative performance data and qualitative assessments to help them grow and enhance their skills. We also value their feedback and regularly conduct interviews with our contractors to learn what’s working well and where we can improve.

Why do contractors want to join the Block network and what are the incentives?

Joining the Block network offers contractors more than just the prestige of being part of an elite group—it provides tangible benefits that help them grow their business and streamline their operations.

• True Partnership: At Block, we treat our contractors as true partners. We’re invested in their success and work to foster long-term relationships. This means, for example, that we don’t charge contractors to join our network—a rarity in this industry. We believe that by building a strong partnership, we can achieve mutual success.
• Steady Pipeline of Projects: One of the biggest challenges for contractors is maintaining a consistent flow of projects. Block addresses this by providing a steady pipeline of high-quality projects, allowing contractors to focus on delivering exceptional work without worrying about where their next job will come from.
• Streamlined Payments: We’ve simplified the payment process to ensure that contractors get paid promptly and without hassle. This financial stability allows them to focus on what they do best—creating beautiful, functional spaces for homeowners.

By building a network of the best contractors, we’re able to work towards long-term partnerships that benefit all parties. If you’re a contractor looking to grow your business and work with a company that values quality and integrity, Block is the place for you. And if you’re a homeowner ready to start your renovation journey, Block is here to connect you with the best contractors in the business.