So you love the area you live in, yet your still not happy with your home?  It could be the worn out linoleum tiles or the 80’s wainscoting wood panels reminding you every time you enter your house that’s it’s time for

a change. Whatever the case, it’s time for a reno.  With our busy schedules and lack of building code knowledge many homeowners have called upon the help of a contractor.

The contractors job is to bring in the right people to get the job done on time and on budget. The size, style, type and budget vary for every project BUT the one thing that should remain the same is the process you take to hire a contractor.

Before committing yourself (and money) it’s vital to write down, in detail, all of the projects needs.  Once you’ve written your plan, it’s time to hire a contractor.  Remember to ALWAYS have at least 3 competitive bids from contractors (make sure to get the quotes in writing). No matter how cheap of a price or how well the first contractor presented to you, it’s always advised to get at least 2 other quotes.

Some suggestions for finding names of contractors are:

• Check with local or provincial Home Builders Associations
  http://www.homesontario.com/ (Ontario Home Builders Association)
  http://www.chba.ca/ (Canadian Home Builders Association)
• Ask neighbours and friends for recommendations
• Check the Yellow Pages under the heading “Contractors, Building”
• Check with local building material suppliers or hardware stores
• Take a drive around your neighbourhood and write down the names of contractors who’ve worked on the houses in your area.  Most contractors put up lawn signs advertising their business.

Don’t be afraid to ask for plans or sketches of the work to be done.  Also inquire about the type of material to be used and if their any questions about these materials, ask for clarification.  Before signing on that dotted line, be sure to check the reputation and past projects completed by the contractor.  The more they have to show, the clearer the picture of your future reno becomes.  Ask the contractor for the name of their insurance company (and proof of insurance) as well as written verification that they have public liability, property damage insurance.  This way you know your getting your monies worth.

As for the actual contract, they vary for each project.  I great link I came across is The Canadian Home Builders’ Association.  They offer tons of advice on items to be included in the contract.  As an extra measure have your lawyer review the contract.  It’s your money, make the most out of it!

Happy Renovating!

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