In most states, a wooden carport is technically classified as an "out-building" or a permanent structure on your property. This means you'll need to be sure that the contractor you hire is licensed to operate in the state. Different states have different requirements when it comes to licensing, so you should head down to city hall and learn about local requirements. Each contractor you consider working with should be gauged against the backdrop of these qualifications. If you settle for a contractor that is not properly licensed to work in your state, you may find that you're going to have more problems than you imagined.

For jobs like this, a contractor will always ask for a deposit and this is something that you should be prepared to give them. While deposits are a common part of having any construction done on your property, you shouldn't give more than 25 or 30 per cent. When you give too much at one time, you may take away the incentive to get your job finished sooner rather than later. On the other hand, few if any qualified professional contractors will consider working with you if you are completely opposed to the idea of a deposit.