With the end of the school year rapidly approaching and summer only weeks away, June tends to be the perfect time for homeowners to turn their attention to sprucing up with some outdoor home renovations. And whether it’s building a new deck, having some landscape work done, or just replacing shingles, most Manitobans look to get these types of projects completed now so they can make the most out of our short summer season.
For those who aren’t the do-it-yourself types, finding the right company or contractor to do outdoor renovations can be a bit intimidating. Here are some tips on how to make sure you find the right renovator. Always keep in mind that the cheapest deal isn’t necessary the best deal. In fact, it could end up costing you more in the long run. Finding someone "handy" who is willing to do the job for cash — tax free and permit free — may sound like a fine idea, but this can come with big implications. Proper permits and a contract with a properly insured professional can take away a ton of worry and provide you with piece of mind, regardless of the size and scale of the job. Otherwise, you are leaving yourself open to hoping — rather than knowing — the job will get done properly.
Plan your project. Identify what your budget is, what work must be done and what your "wish list" is should the budget allow. This will help you plan properly and outline the scope of work needing to be done. It will also help in getting accurate quotes from contractors you would like to work with.
Get a detailed written contract from your contractor. Without a contract, you don’t have any control over the work to be done, time frame for completion or what the final price will be. Professionals will back up their quote with a contract.
Ask about insurance and warranty coverage. Professional renovators will carry the proper insurance coverage and take steps to ensure your renovation is done safely. They will also do the work in a way that ensures that the work done will not void the manufacturer’s warranty on products and materials used. The Manitoba Home Builders’ Association has some great resources on our website (homebuilders.mb.ca) for homeowners looking at doing home renovations that can help you plan and prepare for a renovation project and help you find professional renovators to do the job.
With countless renovation TV shows and social media formats such as Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram and others supplying you with an almost endless stream of renovation ideas, making a splash with a creative addition or change to your outdoor living space has never been more popular. A RenoMark renovator — someone that has agreed to the Canadian Home Builders’ Association code of ethics — can help you do just that and provide you with peace of mind in the process.
Lanny McInnes is president of the Manitoba Home Builders’ Association.
