Hiring a website designer? Here’s what every contractor should check first.
If you’re a contractor looking to get your first website—or upgrade the one you’ve had for years—you might be wondering what to look for in a designer. The truth is, not all websites are built the same, and not all designers have your best interests (or industry) in mind. Before you invest your hard-earned money, here’s a quick checklist of what to ask so you don’t get stuck with hidden fees, limited access, or a site that can’t grow with your business.
1. Full Website Ownership
Will you own the website outright once it’s completed and paid for?
Can you log in and make edits yourself without needing to go through the designer?
2. Full Domain Ownership
Is the domain registered under your name or business (not theirs)?
Will you have full access to your domain registrar account?
3. No Mandatory Monthly Fees
Are there optional update or maintenance fees only when needed (project-based)?
Or are you locked into a monthly retainer just for access or minor changes?
4. Upgrade Flexibility
Can your website grow as your business grows (add new services, pages, portfolio, etc.)?
What are the costs to upgrade later? (You shouldn't have to start from scratch!)
5. Experience with Construction Industry
Do they understand how to position services like remodels, custom builds, or bids?
Bonus if they’ve worked with contractors or subcontractors before—even basic industry knowledge helps with content and layout.
6. Platform Transparency
What platform will your site be built on (e.g., Squarespace, WordPress, Wix)?
Is it easy for you or your team to update and maintain?
Will it work well for SEO, photo galleries, and contact forms?
7. Portfolio Quality
Ask to see websites they’ve built—especially for service-based or construction businesses.
Are the designs clean, mobile-friendly, and easy to navigate?
8. Communication & Process
Do they explain things in a way you understand?
Do they provide clear timelines, steps, and expectations up front?
9. Support & Access After Launch
What happens after the site goes live?
Will they train you on how to make updates?
Do they offer additional support if you need help down the road?
10. Clear Scope, Timeline & Pricing
Do they clearly outline what pages are included (Home, About, Services, Contact, etc.)?
Do you have a full understanding of the total cost, including any upfront fees, platform fees (like Squarespace), or add-ons?
Is there a realistic timeline for when the website will be completed?
What’s the process if you need changes mid-project—do they charge per revision?
Ready to work with a website designer who gets contractors? At Elevate Marketing Studios, we build clean, high-performing websites that you fully own—with no surprise fees. Whether you need a simple site to get found online or something more advanced to book bigger jobs, we’ve got you covered. Learn more →
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