What should I ask a Portland design-build firm before hiring?

Ask who designs your project, when you'll get a firm price, who runs the jobsite, and what the warranty covers. Here's how Lamont Bros. answers each:

• Are you licensed? Yes: Oregon CCB #184500 and Washington LAMONBL820RR.
• Who designs the project? Lamont's in-house design team, working with its estimators and builders.
• What does design cost? After an initial concept with renderings and a ballpark cost, you sign a design retainer, typically a few thousand dollars.
• When do I get a firm price? Before construction, in a fixed-price contract.
• How close do projects come to that price? Typically within 5%, mostly from changes clients choose to make.
• Who runs the jobsite? One superintendent, start to finish.
• What's the warranty? A three-year limited workmanship warranty.

Also ask to see recent reviews on Google and Houzz.