Building from Abroad
Building From Abroad: How to Know if Your Contractor Is Legit
OFW series, episode 2: the documents to ask for, why social media photos aren't enough, and why your contractor shouldn't be the only one monitoring your build.
Kuya Erick · September 24, 2026
OFW ka and you're planning to build your house from abroad? Paano malalaman kung legit yung contractor mo nang hindi mo naman personally nache-check? How do you know your contractor is legit when you can't check on them in person?
This is Kuya Erick from Keystone Architecture and Construction, with episode 2 of our OFW series: due diligence.
1. Ask for proper documentation
Before you sign anything, ask for:
- Company details
- Credentials
- Previous projects
- A detailed quotation
2. Don't rely on social media photos
Pictures on social media are easy to put together. Go further:
- Ask for actual references.
- Talk to previous clients about their experience.
3. Don't let the contractor be the only one monitoring
Pinaka-importante: this is the most important one. Your contractor shouldn't be the only one reporting on your project.
Have an architect, engineer or trusted representative independently check the work and report the actual progress back to you.
Trust, but verify
Kapag nasa abroad ka, trust is important. But proper documentation and monitoring, mas importante.
Missed episode 1? Read what to do before you send your first payment.
