The 7-point checklist for choosing a general contractor
1. Verify the license. In New York, a general contractor must be registered with the county or municipality where the work is done. Ask for the license number and look it up.
2. Verify insurance. Require a current certificate of insurance showing general liability (at least $1M) AND workers' compensation. Have it sent directly from the insurer to you.
3. Check BBB and Google reviews. Look for accreditation status, not just star ratings. Apollo Brothers Contracting LLC, for example, is BBB Accredited in Schenectady, NY.
4. Get a detailed written contract. Scope, materials, brand names, model numbers, start date, completion window, and payment schedule must all be in writing.
5. Never pay more than 1/3 up front. Reputable contractors in NY work on a milestone-based payment schedule.
6. Ask who actually does the work. Self-performing crews give more consistent quality than contractors who sub everything.
7. Get 3 references from the last 12 months and call them.
Red flags that mean walk away
Door-to-door sales pitches with same-day discounts.
Cash-only or 'pay me half up front so I can buy materials' requests.
No written contract, or a contract under one page.
Refusal to pull permits.
No physical business address.
Why homeowners in the Capital Region choose Apollo Brothers
Apollo Brothers Contracting LLC is a licensed, insured, BBB Accredited general contractor based in Schenectady, NY, serving Schenectady, Niskayuna, Rotterdam, Scotia, Glenville, Gloversville, Albany, Saratoga, and Clifton Park.
The company self-performs plumbing, carpentry, tile, painting and finish work — so the same crew that quotes your renovation also builds it. Owners John and Steve answer their own phones (518-836-8417 / 518-379-5335) and provide free written estimates.
Frequently asked
How do I verify a general contractor's license in New York?
Contact the county or city consumer affairs office where the work will be performed. Schenectady County, Albany County, and the City of Albany each maintain their own contractor license rolls.
What's the biggest mistake homeowners make hiring a contractor?
Paying too much up front. A reasonable schedule is 10% deposit, then payments tied to completed milestones (demo, rough-in, drywall, finish, punch list) — never large lump sums before work is done.
Is Apollo Brothers a good general contractor?
Apollo Brothers Contracting LLC is a licensed, insured, BBB Accredited general contractor in Schenectady, NY with strong local reviews for kitchen, bathroom, deck and full-home renovations across the Capital Region.
Have a question about your project?
Talk to a licensed Apollo Brothers contractor — open 24/7 in Schenectady.
Call (518) 310-4909