Who Actually Owns the Code and Content?
Before signing anything, ask explicitly: once the project is complete, do you own the code, the CMS, the hosting account and the domain outright? Some agencies build on proprietary platforms or retain admin-level control, which effectively locks you in. A trustworthy agency hands over full ownership — source code, credentials, and documentation — at project completion, with no ongoing dependency required to make basic changes yourself.
What Happens After Launch?
Launch is the beginning, not the end. Ask what support looks like afterwards: is there a maintenance retainer, and what does it cover? Who fixes a broken plugin or a security patch six months from now? Agencies that disappear after the final invoice are common — and expensive to recover from when something breaks. Get support terms in writing before you commit, not as an afterthought once you're already a client.
Fixed Price vs Scope Creep
Ask how the quote was built and what happens if requirements change mid-project. A vague quote with no defined scope is an invitation for cost overruns. A good agency will document exactly what's included, what counts as a change request, and how those are priced — before work starts. If an agency is reluctant to put a fixed price in writing for a well-defined project, treat that as a signal.
Can They Show Real, Verifiable Results?
Case studies and testimonials are easy to produce and hard to verify. Ask for live sites they've actually built — not just design mockups — and check they still look and perform well months or years later. Ask about a project that didn't go smoothly and how they handled it; how an agency talks about failure tells you more than a polished portfolio ever will.
Red Flags Worth Watching For
Pressure to sign quickly, reluctance to explain technical decisions in plain English, unwillingness to name the actual platform or stack being used, and quotes that seem far below market rate for the stated scope are all common warning signs. So is an agency that can't clearly explain who will actually be doing the work — you want to know if it's the person you're speaking to, or an unnamed subcontractor.
Questions Worth Asking on the First Call
Who owns the code after handover? What's included in the fixed price, and what isn't? What does post-launch support cost, and what does it cover? Can I see three live sites you've built in the last year? What happens if I want to leave partway through? A confident, specific answer to each of these is a good sign. Vague or evasive answers are the clearest red flag of all.