DECIDING who to hire for your home renovation is an important part of planning for the success of your project. You want to work with a professional contractor, someone who is reputable and in business for the long term.
You need to find someone who is right for your particular project and someone you can feel comfortable with and can develop a good working relationship with.
Not everyone who offers renovation services is in business legitimately.
Some are 'fly-by-nighters' --who are here today and gone tomorrow. Some are 'moonlighters -- they do renovation on the side but it's not their 'real job.' Others are 'low-ballers' who ask for cash payment and fly 'under the radar' by avoiding registration, taxes and other normal costs of doing business properly.
Any home renovation, no matter the size, is an investment in your home and your life. Look for a contractor who:
-- Offers proof of being in business: GST/business registration, workers compensation, insurance, and so on.
-- Works with a written contract.
-- Offers a warranty on their work.
-- Provides referrals to previous work and clients.
-- Is happy to talk about their company, their experience and their plans for the future
Companies that belong to RenoMark, a program for professional renovators in some areas of Canada, commit to a renovation-specific code of conduct.
Check www.homebuilders.mb.ca for more information and a listing of members in Manitoba.
You want to find someone who has experience with the kind of renovation you are planning and can add value to your project through their expertise.
As you search for renovators, ask friends, family and co-workers for recommendations for companies with proven experience; do a little independent research for companies that may be a good match for your project; and ask renovators directly about their experience and possible fit with your project.
Reputable, experienced renovators are often booked well in advance.
Start your search early on in your planning process and be prepared to wait, if possible. When you find the right renovator, a small delay is a reasonable price to pay for a renovation done right.
This backgrounder has been prepared by the Canadian Renovators' Council of the Canadian Home Builders' Association.
