Top 6 Mistakes Homeowners Make When Hiring a Deck Builder

Hiring the right deck builder can make or break your entire outdoor project. The best deck contractors typically build eye-catching outdoor living areas that last for decades. Get this wrong, and you could end up with frustrating delays, surprise costs, or even a structure that doesn’t pass inspection.

While it may appear to be clear as day, the truth is many homeowners don’t know what to look for when hiring a contractor. And with so many options, it’s easy to fall into common traps.

Before you sign a contract, here are the top 6 mistakes to avoid when choosing a deck builder. We’ll also look into how to protect your investment by making the right call from the start. 

For any inquiries about outdoor space construction in Naperville and Chicagoland, consult Warner’s Decking for professional direction and free estimates. 

Mistake #1: Choosing Based on Price Alone

Everyone wants to save money, but when it comes to deck building, the lowest bid isn’t always the best value. Cheap contractors almost always undercut the competition by using inferior materials, skipping permit requirements, or rushing the job. These shortcuts can result in structural failures, water damage, or premature wear.

We can’t stress this enough: a deck is a major structure that affects your home’s safety and value. Going with the cheapest option might save a little upfront, but it often means sacrificing quality, durability, and support. 

Instead, focus on value. A reputable builder in Illinois will give you a fair price that reflects expert labor, proper materials, and long-lasting results. It's better to pay once for a job done right than twice to fix it later.

Contact Warner’s Decking for a free and current estimate on the construction of a deck in Chicagoland.  

Mistake #2: Not Checking for Licensing and Insurance

Hiring an unlicensed or uninsured contractor can open the door to serious problems. Without proper credentials, there's no guarantee they follow building codes or safety standards. And if something goes wrong on the job, you could be the one held liable.

A licensed contractor is approved by local authorities and trained to meet industry standards. Moreso, an unlicensed deck builder can’t be trusted not to scam you or use inferior materials. Insurance protects you from unexpected costs if there’s damage to your property or someone gets injured during the build.

Before hiring anyone, ask for proof of licensing and insurance. If they can’t show it, move on—fast.

Mistake #3: Skipping References and Reviews

Don’t just take a contractor’s word for it. Scan what past clients have to say to see if anything (good or bad) stands out. Online reviews and photo galleries can reveal more than any sales pitch ever could. They show how the builder handles real projects, meets deadlines, and responds when problems come up.

Skipping this step means flying blind. You might end up with someone who cuts corners, doesn’t follow through, or disappears halfway through the job.

Don’t

Before you hire, check Google, Yelp, or even Facebook for reviews. Ask for photos of recent work and contact a few past customers if possible. A reliable contractor should have nothing to hide.

Warner’s Decking has maintained an impressive 5-star record for over 35 years across Illinois and is a TrexPro Platinum Deck Builder. 

Mistake #4: Ignoring Communication Red Flags

Good communication is a sign of a professional contractor. If a builder takes too long to respond, avoids your questions, or gives vague answers, that’s a red flag. It often means they will be just as unreliable once the project begins.

You should always feel informed and comfortable asking questions. A quality deck builder will clearly explain the timeline, materials, pricing, and next steps without dodging the details.

If they’re hard to reach before you even hire them, imagine how hard it’ll be to get updates during the build. Go with someone who respects your time and keeps things transparent.

Mistake #5: Not Asking About Permits or Local Codes

A deck isn’t just a backyard project—it’s a structure that needs to follow local building rules. If your contractor skips permits or ignores codes, you could face fines, failed inspections, or even be forced to tear the deck down.

Some builders leave permits up to the homeowner or avoid them altogether to cut corners. That’s a huge risk. A reliable contractor will be familiar with the specific codes in your area, obtain all necessary permits, and ensure that everything passes inspection.

Before hiring anyone, ask how they handle permits. If their answer is unclear or dismissive, keep looking. A trusted contractor, like Warner’s Decking, answers common questions in a publicly available document and replies to requests within 24 hours. 

Mistake #6: Failing to Ask About Warranties

A good deck builder stands behind their work. If you don’t ask about warranties, you might end up stuck with unexpected repair bills just months after the project is done.

Professional contractors typically offer warranties on both labor and materials. This protects you if boards warp, railings come loose, or anything fails due to poor installation. Without a warranty, you’re left to pay for those fixes yourself.

Before you hire, ask what type of warranty is included and what it covers. If there’s no warranty—or just a vague promise—you’re better off finding someone who backs their work with confidence.

Final Thoughts

Hiring the right deck builder is just as important as choosing the right materials. Rushing into the cheapest option, skipping reviews, or ignoring permits can turn your dream project into a costly regret.

A professional deck contractor does more than build—they guide, protect, and deliver a result you’ll be proud of. When you avoid these common mistakes, you’re more likely to end up with a deck that’s safe, beautiful, and built to last.

Need a Trusted Deck Contractor in The Chicagoland Area?

Warner’s Decking has been helping homeowners avoid these exact pitfalls for years. From permits to warranties, we handle everything the right way, so you don’t have to worry.

Get in touch today for a free estimate, and let’s build your deck the smart way.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if a deck contractor is qualified?

A qualified deck builder will be licensed, insured, and experienced with both residential code compliance and complex structural builds. Look for a contractor who provides references, shows a clear portfolio of past work, and explains the permitting process. Warner’s Decking fills all the criteria, including several awards, for composite deck building in Chicagoland and Naperville. Verifying credentials with local authorities or asking to see recent permits is also a smart step before signing any contract.

Do I really need a permit to build a deck?

Yes. Most municipalities require a permit for any new deck construction or structural modification. A permit ensures your deck meets local safety codes, including proper footing depth, railing height, and load-bearing capacity. If your contractor skips permits, you risk failed inspections, fines, or being forced to tear the deck down. Our deck contractors will manage all permits for you, guaranteeing full compliance from start to finish.

Why is a written contract so important?

A written contract protects you from unexpected changes or disputes. It should clearly outline project costs, materials, labor details, timeline, payment schedule, and warranty coverage. Without a formal agreement, you have no legal recourse if something goes wrong. Always get the scope of work in writing before construction begins.

What’s the risk of hiring an uninsured contractor?

If your contractor lacks liability insurance or workers’ compensation coverage, any damage or injury on your property could become your financial responsibility. Insurance protects you from lawsuits, property damage, or job-site accidents. Reputable contractors carry updated policies and provide proof upon request.

Can I save money by choosing the cheapest bid?

Not necessarily. Low bids often mean cost-cutting in critical areas like materials, framing, fasteners, or permitting. While it may seem like a bargain upfront, the long-term cost of repairs, warranty voids, or structural issues can far outweigh the savings. Quality work requires quality resources—investing in the right builder saves you money over time.

Does a professionally built deck increase my home’s value?

Yes. Professionally installed decks that are permitted, code-compliant, and visually appealing can significantly boost your property’s resale value. Buyers want assurance that additions were built properly and won’t require immediate repair or demolition. A deck from Warner’s Decking adds both curb appeal and peace of mind since we only use composite deck boards.