All good home renos start with a plan
January is when many homeowners turn their attention to planning a renovation. So, if you have an upgrade or renovation in mind, you are in good company — according to Statistics Canada’s Canadian Housing Survey (2018), more than one million Canadian homes are in need of major repair.
Renovations and repairs may include smaller jobs, like a bathroom refresh or finishing a basement to meet changing life needs. But whether it’s a small job or substantial project, understanding the planning and the process are key factors in achieving the results you want.
Your first step should be to develop a very clear vision of what is required. Take time to articulate what goals you want to achieve, and develop a clear description of what you want to change.
Write down your priorities and the items you’d like to have — if your budget allows. Make sure everyone in your home participates in the discussion so you have a complete picture of what is needed.
Then it’s time to find a professional renovator that will guide you through the process. The good ones get booked up months in advance, so it is in your best interest to start this process early.
Since you’ll need to put a lot of trust in this contractor, look for a renovator that is a member of BILD’s RenoMark program. This means that they are committed to the RenoMark code of conduct and BILD’s code of ethics. To find a RenoMark renovator, visit RenoMark.ca
Price is an important consideration when choosing a renovator, but remember: you usually get what you pay for. Consider the renovator’s experience, construction schedule and references. Verify that the renovator has appropriate licences, WSIB coverage and insurance. Check three references for a good understanding of how the company operates.
The renovator you choose may bring in a designer or architect to help work through your project outline, and create plans and specifications. This will determine the budget estimate — and any building permits and approvals needed, which can take weeks and even months.
When you are comfortable with the preliminary design, budget and timetable, you’re ready to draw up a written contract with your renovator — something all RenoMark renovators do for all projects. The contract sets out the precise scope of the work, the price, a schedule of payments, a reasonable timetable for completing the work, productspecific details and a warranty clause. The contract should be reviewed by a lawyer. Remember: good contracts protect both parties if there’s a dispute or problem.
BILD has recently compiled a new “RenoMark Reno Guide,” published with the support of the City of Toronto Environment & Energy Division and can be found at BetterHomesTo.ca.
You can pick up a free copy of the guide at the GTA Home and Reno Show, on the Family Day long weekend, Feb. 14-17 at the International Centre in Mississauga. I hope to see you there!