If you’re renovating your home, or building a new home, you want your project to go right.

You want to work with a reputable contractor – one that treats you fairly and honestly, puts their promises in writing, and backs up their work. You should not deal with anyone who offers a special price if you pay cash and nothing gets written down. A cash deal means a lot more risk for you, and far less control over how your project turns out. And that’s no deal at all. How can you be sure everything is being done properly and above-board?

STEP 1: Get Informed

Knowledge can protect you from risks

Home renovation and construction is a complex process. As a consumer, you need to know where you stand, and that your interests are protected. Some things you need to be aware of, and that should be addressed in a written contract, include:

Building codes and permits. Most projects, even minor ones, require a building permit and must adhere to code requirements. As the homeowner, you are responsible for ensuring this happens. Your contractor can usually look after this on your behalf.

Insurance. Does your homeowners’ insurance cover construction-related risks? Call your agent to confirm. Also, your contractor needs to have business liability insurance to protect you from their mistakes.

Liens. Each province has requirements for holding back a portion of all payments to your contractor for a set period of time. Doing this protects you from claims if the contractor fails to pay suppliers and subcontractors.

Workers’ Compensation. Those employed to work on your property may require coverage under provincial Workers’ Compensation programs. Without it, you could be liable in the event of a workplace injury.

Warranties. Professional renovators provide a clear written warranty on their work. Custom new home builders should provide a third-party new home warranty.

STEP 2: Hire A Professional

Know who you’re dealing with

How can you find a good professional contractor?

Ask around. Some of the best recommendations come from friends, family, co-workers and neighbours who have had positive experiences. Other sources of information include:

• Homebuilders’ or trade associations
• Building materials stores
• Utility companies
• Better Business Bureaus

How can you find a good professional contractor?

Professionals provide the following, often as part of your written contract:

• Full contact information, including name, address and phone number
• Confirmation of business liability insurance that protects you or third parties, such as neighbours
• Utility companies proof of Workers’ Compensation
• Their government-issued Business Number or GST/HST number, and proof of any business licence required by the municipality
• A clear written warranty specifying what is covered and for how long

STEP 3: Get Control

Get it in Writing!

Professional contractors always work with a proper, written contract. A contract spells out a clear project plan and what you and your contractor have agreed to.

It is the best way to protect yourself and ensure things go as planned – and a valuable part of what a professional contractor provides.

A written contract should include the following:

• A full description of the work, including the materials and products to be used
• Dates when the work will start and be completed
• A clear payment schedule that lays out when and how much you will be charged, and what lien holdbacks are required
• The contractor’s warranty detailing what is covered and for how long
• Confirmation that the contractor has business liability coverage for your project and that required Workers’ Compensation coverage is in place

Don’t sign a contract unless you are satisfied that it includes all the necessary information and accurately and fully represents what you have agreed to.