How to Choose the Right Contractor in Acadiana: 7 Red Flags to Avoid

Hiring the right contractor can make or break your remodel — especially in South Louisiana, where humidity, aging homes, and Cajun-French architectural details demand real expertise. Choosing wrong doesn’t just cost money; it can damage your home’s structure, ruin historic details, or delay your project for months.

At Cajun Conservation, we’ve heard countless stories from homeowners who learned the hard way. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help families, retirees, and investors in Acadiana choose a contractor they can trust — and avoid the red flags that lead to expensive mistakes.

1. No License or Insurance

This is the biggest red flag.

In Louisiana, legitimate remodelers carry:

• Home Improvement License

• General Liability Insurance

• Workers’ Compensation (if employees)

💡 Pro Tip: Never hire someone who “works for cash” or refuses to show paperwork. If something goes wrong, you are financially responsible.

2. Vague or Handwritten Estimates

Professional contractors provide detailed, itemized estimates, not:

• one-liners

• rounded numbers

• verbal quotes

A proper estimate should list:

• labor

• materials

• timeline

• payment stages

• scope of work

If it’s vague, expect surprises — and not the good kind.

3. No Contract or Refusal to Sign One

A real contract protects both you and the contractor.If someone tries to avoid paperwork, it means:

• they don’t want accountability

• or they don’t plan to follow through

A contract is non-negotiable.

4. Extremely Low Bids

If a contractor is far cheaper than everyone else, it’s almost always because:

• they're using unskilled labor

• they’ll cut corners

• they’re uninsured

• or they plan to upcharge later

💡 Pro Tip: In remodeling, “cheap” often becomes the most expensive choice.

5. No Portfolio or Real Photos

Any reputable contractor should have:

• before/after photos

• examples of kitchens, bathrooms, and porches

• proof of craftsmanship

Stock photos = a huge red flag.

6. Poor Communication

If they take days to answer questions before you hire them, imagine what happens once your walls are open.

Signs of bad communication:

• inconsistent replies

• no clear start dates

• confusing explanations

• no project updates

You need a contractor who is responsive, clear, and invested in your vision.

7. Lack of Knowledge About Local Construction or Historic Homes

Acadiana homes have unique challenges:

• raised foundations

• shiplap walls

• beadboard ceilings

• old wiring/plumbing

• hidden termite or moisture damage

If a contractor doesn’t understand Cajun-French architecture or older homes, they can cause more harm than good.

💡 Pro Tip: Always ask them about their experience with Acadian cottages, Creole homes, and older Louisiana properties.

FAQs About Choosing a Contractor in South Louisiana

Q: What’s the first question I should ask a contractor?Ask to see their license, insurance, and recent local projects.

Q: Is it normal for contractors to ask for a deposit?Yes — reputable contractors typically require 20–40% upfront.

Q: How many bids should I get?Three is ideal, but focus on details, experience, and communication — not just price.

Why Cajun Conservation Is the Trusted Choice in Acadiana

We built Cajun Conservation around honesty, communication, and Cajun craftsmanship. Homeowners choose us because:

✔️ We are licensed & insured✔️ We specialize in historic Cajun & Creole homes✔️ We offer detailed written estimates✔️ We take pride in communication and transparency✔️ We protect your home’s story while modernizing it for comfort

Ready to Start Your Remodel With a Contractor You Can Trust?

Whether you're updating a kitchen, restoring a porch, or remodeling a historic home, Cajun Conservation ensures your project is done right — with craftsmanship that honors Louisiana’s culture.

👉 Schedule your free consultation today.