LAST week, the Manitoba Home Builders' Association hosted a free seminar on home renovations featuring a panel of experts who not only gave expert presentations but also answered dozens of questions from attendees.
The MHBA RenoMark Renovators Council was created almost 10 years ago to ensure excellence in the renovation industry through standards, a code of ethics and professional development.
Brad Sveinson of Character Homes started the evening by informing the audience of what they need to do to start the renovation process. He talked of the importance of establishing a needs list, a wish list and a realistic budget.
Pam Vernaus from Manitoba Hydro demonstrated how consumers could save a considerable amount of money and access grant and rebate programs by utilizing energy efficient strategies when engaging in a renovation project.
Scott Plett from Steinbach Credit Union outlined how homeowners could use their current assets to access the necessary money to finance their renovation and still live within their means.
Martin Grady from the City of Winnipeg presented information on the zoning and permit process, telling people when they did and didn't need a permit for their renovation, when a zoning variance was required and how to access city services to optimize their renovation project.
As president of the MHBA, I informed the audience of the perils of the underground economy. Even though you may be saving money up front, the risk of liability claims as the prime contractor, not using licensed skilled trades for permit-necessary work and not having any recourse without a contract in the event that something goes wrong, winds up costing everyone considerably more in the long run.
Sveinson then concluded the presentations by telling the audience what to look for in a renovator and how to select the best contractor for your project. He also outlined the merits of hiring a RenoMark renovator and the importance of ensuring your renovator adheres to the principles outlined on their site at www.renomark.ca, including the need for a detailed written contract.
The evening concluded with a lengthy question and answer period. All of the panel participated in this session along with Ralph Oswald from Oswald Construction.
This has proven to be a valuable session provided by the RenoMark Renovators Council members of the MHBA. All attendees left ready to tackle their next renovation project.
Mike Moore is president of the Manitoba Home Builders' Association.
