Moody: Here are our top tips to finding qualified renovators
FINDING THE RIGHT RENOVATOR WILL SAVE MANY HEADACHES LATER ON IN THE PROCESS
The most important stage in planning a renovation project is finding the right renovator. It will save many headaches later on in the process. Here are our top tips to finding qualified and professional renovators.
Get it in writing
Professional renovators offer clearly written contracts and avoid doing cash deals. Providing a written record of the work you have paid for protects against unexpected charges later. The contract will include full plans and specifications; it can be fairly lengthy for complex repairs and larger renovation projects.
WorkSafeBC Certificate Insurance
Professional renovators register with WorkSafeBC. As a homeowner, you can be liable for injuries on the job if the renovator does not of
have adequate insurance or is not covered by WorkSafeBC. As part of your contract, include a copy of their Certificate of Insurance for proof that coverage is in place. You should also contact your insurance agent to inform them of your planned repairs and start dates.
CHBA BC members
The Canadian Home Builders’
Association of British Columbia is an important resource for finding professional renovators in your community. We have over 2,000 members, comprising home builders, renovators and product suppliers, and each member must adhere to a standard code of ethics. Joining the association is a solid indication that a company is well established and serious about its long-term success.
Be sure to ask for references and follow up on them.
Do they have a GST number?
Professionals pay their taxes and file necessary paperwork. A GST number is a good indication your renovator is professional and doing things by the book. To get one, they must register with the Canada Revenue Agency, pay taxes and file paperwork. We know how important your home is to you and your family. If you hire a renovator who cuts corners in their business, how can you be sure they won’t cut corners on your project?
Permits
For many renovations, permits are required before work can commence. A professional renovator understands the rules and the municipal processes for obtaining the required permits. They will navigate this for you.
Go with a professional and skip the headaches of a home renovation. Just ask homeowner David Legg, who recently hired CHBA BC member Lacey Developments to do his home renovations. “My wife and I are no strangers to home renovations and our experience with Lacey Developments and their staff exceeded our expectations to say the least,” says Legg. “They get a fivestar rating from my wife and I and if there is a higher rating they no doubt deserve it.”
Neil Moody is CEO of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association of British Columbia. To learn more about CHBA BC’s Reno Month, or to find a renovator near you, visit www. renomonth.ca