HOME renovations continue to be a popular topic in Winnipeg and across the country. The fact that our city has the third oldest housing stock in Canada generally translates into the need for renovations.
As a matter of fact, more Manitobans have indicated their intent to renovate their homes in the coming year than in any other province. Perhaps it's in our nature to see something absolutely fabulous at the Kitchen Bath and Renovation Show, Home Expressions or the Parade of Homes and want to introduce that concept into our current home.
Some people look at renovating as an exciting new adventure; others see it as a headache. If you take the necessary steps to avoid certain pitfalls, it can be both exciting and rewarding.
First, remember that the cheapest deal is not necessarily the best deal.
This is a close-knit community, so everyone knows someone who knows someone who is handy with a hammer.
That someone may also be willing to do the job on the side for cash, no questions asked. Just think of the money that you can save by not paying PST and GST. You'll save even more by not taking out permits, fiddling with cumbersome contracts or worrying about insurance.
Bad ideas all around.
Why would you trust your home to someone who does this type of work on the side? The RenoMark logo is your sign of professionalism and confidence.
A RenoMark renovator is your insurance and assurance of quality.
The RenoMark program is nationally recognized by the Canadian Home Builders' Association and is currently operating in six provinces. Manitoba was actually the first province to adopt RenoMark.
A RenoMark renovator provides a detailed written contract for all jobs and takes out all applicable licences and permits and carries $2 million in liability insurance. Why is this important? If you don't take out the necessary permits, the job never legally happened. In the event of an accident, fire, flood or some other problem, you may find that you are not insured for any damage to or resultant from this work.
A RenoMark work site is a safe and professional work site. Anything less is not worth the risk. Consult the RenoMark and MHBA web sites for more information.
Mike Moore is president of the Manitoba Home Builders' Association.
