Avoiding substandard renovation contractors

We’ve all heard horror stories of people getting ripped off by bad renovation contractors.They overcharged, under delivered, damaged things or left projects unfinished. With all these stories in your head, it can be nerve racking trying to find a contractor you can trust.

Before signing a contract with a renovation company, do a background check. You would be surprised how many hired handy men are operating without a legitimate business license.While you’re asking for the license, ask if they carry full liability workers' compensation insurance.If they don’t, and they get hurt on the job, you as the homeowner might not be protected.

“Hiring a professional means that the details like ensuring all necessary approvals and permits are in place, all employees and sub-contractors have the provincial workers’ compensation coverage... and they are readily available to you,” stated RenoMark, a member organization of renovation companies that meet the Canadian Home Builder’s Association Code of Ethics.

These background checks will weed out the renovators who avoid paying taxes and operate cash-only businesses.These types of renovators are the ones you should never hire.

“Before you hire anyone to work on your home renovation, you should always get everything in writing,” advises Keith Riley from RenovationFind.com, an online directory of pre-screened and accredited renovation companies.

“Make sure you see the entire scope of the project written out. That includes the cost of all the materials and products used, labour costs and any unexpected costs that might pop up during the project,” said Riley. “They should also give you a schedule and a list of the sub-trades they plan on using.”

Check their references and the references of any sub-trades they plan on using.Review sites like Homestars.com are helpful, they can give you an idea of the consumer experience and what other homeowners paid for their projects.Online reviews are good, but not always completely accurate. Ask the renovation company if you can speak directly with a few of their previous customers to get the details from someone who has recently worked with the company.

RenoMark members will also provide you with a written list of referrals so you can check on their performance and expertise.

Make sure you ask about warrantees.A good company will offer the coverage you need and should offer after-sales service until your expectations are met.Ask if after-sales service is included or extra, and make sure those details are in writing as well.

“Don’t pay for everything upfront,” warns Riley.“They will likely ask for a deposit at the start of the project but a reputable company will not expect 100 per cent of the cost to be paid in advance.”

Hiring a company that has gone through background checks, meets highly set standards and has a good reputation in the industry will ensure your renovation project runs smoothly.There are many good, reputable renovation contractors out there who will not rip you off.You just have to put in a little effort to find them.