When choosing a renovator, look for the RenoMark logo. It's your symbol of assurance of quality when selecting a renovator. The RenoMark program is a nationally recognized set of standards that will give you the peace of mind you have carefully chosen wisely. In Manitoba, only renovators who are members of the Manitoba Home Builders' Association can display the RenoMark logo. Each applicant must agree to adhere to the RenoMark principles.
What does it take to become a RenoMark renovator?
-- Provide a detailed written contract/scope of work for all jobs
-- Offer a warranty on all work
-- Carry a minimum $2 million liability insurance
-- Carry all applicable licenses and permits
-- Be fully covered under the Workers Compensation Board
-- Only work with trades who carry similar coverage
-- Have and use an applicable business license, GST number
-- Maintain a professional level of knowledge of current building codes, permit procedures and technical skills through continuing education
At the very least, insist your renovator adheres to the above principles even if they are not part of the RenoMark program. It puts you on solid ground when entering into an agreement and lets your renovator know that you demand quality, fairness and high professional standards.
Not every job is going to require the hiring of an external professional renovator. Some jobs we can do ourselves. However, being dollar-wise Manitobans, we want to make sure that we are getting full value. What do we do? Look for the logo!
Yes, the same principle that applies for finding a renovator also applies to finding a supplier. Look for the logo -- the Manitoba Home Builders' Association logo. It makes perfect sense to shop at a supplier of goods and services who is a MHBA member. Why? As above, a committee of industry professionals reviewed their application, checked their references and verified their standard of quality before accepting their membership.
People who have a far greater working knowledge in this area have done our homework for us in advance. These suppliers have already passed the test. They have passed the scrutiny of the best in the business. If the best builders and renovators in Manitoba buy their materials from this supplier, why shouldn't I? Their entire reputation and livelihood depends on searching for the best materials, workmanship and quality. We can all benefit from their diligence.
In summary, our homes are very important to us. We live there; we raise our families there. We deserve the best. In order to ensure we are getting the best, look for the logo.
Mike Moore is president of the
Manitoba Home Builders' Association
