Avoid disappointment when renovating your home

Home renovation season is approaching, and homeowners are contemplating renovation projects. As homeowners plan projects and contemplate quotes, it is important to ensure that communications are clear and that expectations of the contractor are specific and understood. Many disputes filed with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) result from breakdowns in communications and unmet expectations, all supported by vague or absent documentation.

As many factors can contribute to disputes, fractured communications and disappointing outcomes, there are questions that consumers must ask and steps to take to ensure that the project work is clear and that outcomes meet expectations. Clear understandings of the scope of the project, the timing of deliverables, the process to address unforeseen complications or amendments in the scope of the work, and what can be accomplished within the consumer’s budget are necessary. All requirements should be documented in writing in advance of signing the contract, and that cannot be achieved without open communications to develop real understanding.

When requesting quotes, consumers should request evidence of bonding and insurance, detailed material and labour estimates, approximate timing for the stages of the project, deposit and financial payment terms, permit and inspection requirements, and what other marketplace, economical or environmental issues might affect the timing or quality of deliverables. It is also appropriate to request the contractor to provide its GST and PST registration numbers, providing consumers an additional opportunity to verify the legitimacy of the contractor.

Consumers should obtain multiple quotes supported by references that can be checked. Consumers should meet with the selected contractor to discuss all potential “what ifs” and any unknown issues identified in the quoting process, especially since many projects involve deconstruction that may reveal unforeseen incremental work and cost. Consumers and contractors need to clearly document who is responsible for obtaining permits and building code inspections should those be required. As the initiator of the project, consumers need to hold themselves accountable for understanding what building codes apply, where and when to apply for permits, and when to call for stage-based inspections. It may be appropriate to plan interim meetings with the contractor to review work completed and to identify solutions to issues that might have arisen.

If consumers want to amend any project work, including scope of the work or selected materials, those changes should be negotiated and documented with the primary contractor, not his employees or his subcontractors. Such changes may very well add cost to the project, and can affect the quality of the end results. All changes should be documented and agreed upon by both parties.

In Saskatchewan today, contractors are all competing for a limited number of highly skilled tradespeople, and most have work projects booked for their crews from weeks to months in advance. Expectations of immediate service, with the exception of emergencies resulting from natural disasters, are likely unrealistic. Immediate attention by a contractor positioned and qualified to deliver high-quality work on the consumer’s timetable will carry a premium price. Negotiating with a quality contractor for the best price or even suggesting steep reductions in return for cash payments is inviting reduced quality in terms of both materials and workmanship. When planning your renovation projects consumers need to establish realistic time frames, undertake sound research and negotiate the terms of the contract to complete the project in detail. Good contractors all prefer to work with clearly developed and detailed project plans, reducing the risk of misunderstandings, miscommunications and unmet expectations.

As you search for a reliable and trustworthy contractor, inquire with the BBB at www.sask.bbb.org or by telephone at 888-352-7601.You can email your questions to info@sask.

bbb.org.