How to Choose an Exterior Contractor in Iowa

Check that the contractor is registered with the state, get at least two written estimates, and make sure the contract lists the work, materials, price, dates and permits before you sign. After a storm, walk away from anyone who offers to handle your insurance claim or absorb your deductible, because Iowa law bars both.

Check Iowa contractor registration

The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) says anyone who earns at least $2,000 a year from construction must register as a contractor. The application fee is $50, and every registrant needs an Iowa unemployment insurance number. Contractors with employees must also carry workers' compensation and a $25,000 bond, according to DIAL. You can look up any contractor with the state's free Check a contractor license search on the Iowa Workforce Development labor portal, or call DIAL's contractor registration line at 515-242-5871. The Iowa Attorney General adds a fair warning: registration does not prove quality.

Get it in writing

The Iowa Attorney General's office says a home improvement contract should list the work, materials, price, and start and completion dates, and should cover cleanup, permits, inspections and how change orders work. For exterior jobs, that means naming the products. A good gutter estimate says 5-inch or 6-inch K-style, the color, hidden hangers, the number of downspouts and where they drain. A siding estimate names the product line, the house wrap, flashing tape and trim. Vague lines like full exterior package make estimates impossible to compare.

Payments and lien waivers

The Attorney General's office advises against paying the full amount before work is complete and suggests asking about lien waivers before the final payment, because unpaid suppliers or subcontractors may claim lien rights on your home. Its storm-chaser warning also tells homeowners to avoid risky payment methods. A reasonable deposit for special-order windows or siding is common; a contractor who wants most of the money up front for stock materials is a red flag. Pay by check or card so there is a record.

Permits: ask who pulls them

Permit rules differ by city. The City of Des Moines Minor Repair Permit Exemption Policy (effective July 1, 2023) lists residing, same-size window replacement and same-size door replacement as exempt when specific conditions are met, and says exempt work must still meet current code. Resized openings and egress windows change the answer. Ankeny, Altoona, West Des Moines and the other suburbs set their own rules. Ask each contractor how they handle permits and put the answer in the contract.

Storm-chaser red flags

After hail or wind, out-of-town crews knock on doors. Iowa Code 103A.71 says a storm-repair contractor may not advertise or promise to rebate any part of an insurance deductible and may not represent or negotiate your insurance claim, and must give you a signed notice in at least 10-point bold type. The Attorney General's office warns about aggressive sales tactics, says most home repair contracts can be canceled within three business days of signing, and takes storm-chaser reports at 888-777-4590. You can check a contractor's complaint history with the office at (515) 281-5926. Our hail damage guide covers the claim steps.

Compare at least two estimates

The Iowa Insurance Division suggests getting estimates from at least two registered contractors after storm damage, and that is good advice for any exterior job. Line them up item by item: gutter size and gauge, guard type, number of downspouts, siding product and trim, window brand and glass package, and whether rotted fascia board or sheathing is priced in. Ask who will actually be on your roof or ladder, how long the job takes and how they leave the yard. The lowest number often leaves something out.

How we work at Flow Right

We are a family company out of our shop in Mitchellville. When you call or text, Luke comes out himself, measures, looks at the problem with you and explains the options in plain words. You get a written estimate that names the products, such as LeafFX or Gutter Topper leaf protection, Alside siding and windows, LP SmartSide and Marvin windows. Ask us for the details on registration and anything else on this page, and check them yourself. Read more about our family and crew.

Common Questions

What to Do Next

We would rather earn the job with a clear, written estimate than a fast pitch. Call or text Luke at (515) 901-3646 or request a free estimate, and compare ours line by line.

See our seamless gutters service or call or text (515) 901-3646.