Hiring a Deck Builder in Seattle: What to Check First

Look its registration number up on the state's L&I Verify tool; Washington contractors register with the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I).

1. Find the registration number. The law requires a contractor's registration number to be included in all advertisements, including business cards and internet advertisements.
2. Look it up on the L&I Verify tool. The state says the check helps you ensure the contractor is bonded, has liability insurance and has no outstanding infractions.
3. If the company has employees on your job, confirm an active workers' comp account in the same tool.
4. Check that the registered business name matches the name on your written bid.

To register, a Washington general contractor posts a continuous surety bond of $30,000, and a specialty contractor $15,000, along with liability insurance. If things don't go as planned with a registered contractor, the state's Homeowner Recovery Fund may be able to help; check whether you qualify.

Size and height, materials, the ledger flashing, railings and stairs, removal, the permit, payment and dates. Get bids in writing and weigh the scope of work, warranties, references and completion dates, not only the price, as the state advises. For a deck, make sure the bid names:

• Deck size and height above the ground
• Decking material and product line, frame lumber, fasteners and joist protection
• How the ledger attaches to the house and how it is flashed
• Railing type, height and length, and the stairs
• Removal and haul-away of any old deck
• Who applies for the permit, and whether the fee is included
• Payment schedule and start and finish dates

The deck cost guide shows what each of those lines tends to cost.

Cash-only payment, large deposits, no written contract, and being asked to get the permit yourself. The state's advice for hiring a contractor lists these:

• The contractor only accepts cash, requires large deposits or the entire cost up-front, or asks for payment in their own name rather than the business name
• There is no written contract or complete bid
• You are asked to get the building permit yourself; L&I notes that in most instances the contractor is required to take out the permits

On a Seattle deck, also be wary of anyone who says a raised deck needs no permit. The permit guide lists the thresholds.

Your request goes to our vetted local deck pro, an independent company that contacts you about your project. This site does not visit, design, quote or build anything, and the company you hire is responsible for the work and the permit. Read how we vet our deck pros. Nothing stops you from getting other bids as well.