About.com's Bob Formisano,  writes the Home Repair Column: "The easiest, and one of the best ways to select a possible contractor, is to get references from friends, family or a Realtor you trust."

Painting and Decorating Contractors of America produced this article on hiring a professional.

The Certified Contractors NetWork produced this brochure on contractor selection.

Tim Carter, who writes the Ask the Builder syndicated column, writes: Contractors need to go through a job interview with you in order for you to know what type of abilities they have. Ask about professional designations, association memberships and the types of trade journals he reads. Verify the memberships by making a few calls. Learn all you can about what your contractor knows."