How to verify a contractor in India?

10-Point Contractor Verification Checklist

• ✅ GST Registration — Verify on gst.gov.in (search by GSTIN). Contractors with >₹20L annual revenue must be registered.
• ✅ Trade License — Ask for contractor license issued by local municipal body for construction work.
• ✅ PAN Card — Any professional receiving >₹20,000 must provide PAN for TDS deduction.
• ✅ Labour License — For projects with >10 workers, contractor needs registration under Contract Labour Act.
• ✅ Work References — Ask for minimum 3 recent client references. CALL them — don't just accept numbers.
• ✅ Site Visit — Visit at least one of their ongoing or completed projects in person. Photos can be fake.
• ✅ Company Address — Verify the physical office address exists (Google Maps + one site visit).
• ✅ Insurance — Professional contractors carry workmen's compensation insurance. Ask for the policy copy.
• ✅ Bank Account — Payment should go to a business account matching company name, never to a personal account.
• ✅ Written Contract — Legitimate contractors never refuse a proper written contract with scope and milestones.