By Deck Building Services · Last reviewed
What is a deck contractor referral service?
It is a matching service, not a construction company. It takes your project details and connects you with an independent deck contractor; the contractor, not the referral service, does the work.
Deck Building Services (DeckBuildingServices.net) operates this way. The contractors you are connected with are independent businesses. They are not our employees or agents, and they are responsible for their own licensing, insurance, permits, pricing, workmanship and warranties.
Is the referral free, and who pays for it?
Yes, the referral is free for homeowners. Referral services are typically paid by participating contractors for introductions, not by the homeowner.
You never pay the referral service. Any price you pay for the deck is agreed directly between you and the contractor you choose to hire, and you are not obligated to hire anyone.
What happens when you call?
- 1You call the number on the site and confirm the project ZIP code is in a listed service area.
- 2You describe the project: new deck, replacement, repair or resurfacing, rough size and height, and materials you are considering.
- 3Your call is connected or your details are passed to an independent contractor serving that area.
- 4The contractor contacts you, arranges a site visit and provides their own written scope and price.
- 5You decide whether to hire them. The contract, payments and warranty are between you and the contractor.
What do you agree to when you call?
By calling, you agree that your call and the details you share may be used to connect you with an independent contractor, that calls may be recorded for quality, and that the contractor may call or text you back about your project.
Consent to be contacted is not a condition of any purchase, and you can ask not to be contacted again at any time. Our privacy policy explains how call information is used and shared.
How should you vet any contractor you are referred to?
Treat a referral as an introduction, not an endorsement. Verify license and insurance yourself, get the scope in writing and confirm who pulls the permit.
- Check the contractor's license or registration with your state or local licensing agency where one is required.
- Ask for a certificate of liability insurance and, if they have employees, workers' compensation coverage.
- Ask how the deck will be supported and attached: footing depth, beam and joist sizes, ledger flashing and fasteners.
- Get a written scope listing materials, railings, stairs, permits, debris removal and payment schedule.
- Confirm who applies for the permit and schedules inspections.
- Ask what warranty the contractor provides on labor, separate from manufacturer product warranties.
Our guide to choosing a deck builder lists twelve questions to ask in more detail.
How does a referral differ from hiring a deck company directly?
| Question | Referral service | Direct to a contractor |
|---|---|---|
| Who does the work? | An independent contractor | That contractor |
| Cost to homeowner for the introduction | Free | Not applicable |
| Who prices and warrants the job? | The contractor | The contractor |
| Main benefit | One call to reach a contractor serving your ZIP | You choose the company yourself |
| Your responsibility | Vet the contractor before hiring | Vet the contractor before hiring |
Where is the referral service available?
Only in the ZIP codes listed on our service-area pages, which are spread across a set of U.S. states. If your ZIP is not listed, the ZIP checker says so plainly, and our guides — including the regional climate guide for every U.S. state — remain free to use for planning your deck with any contractor.