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5 Things to Look For in a Contractor
Taking on a new home project can be intimidating, regardless of the scope of the work. One of the top pieces of advice you’ll often hear is to hire the right people for the job; the right contractors make all the difference! Today, with the help of Lanny McInnes, president of the Manitoba Home Builders’ Association, we’re sharing the top five things that you should look for in a contractor before taking on your next home project.
1. Clear contracts
Your contractor should always provide you with a detailed, written contract (including scope of work) for all jobs. Clear communication between contractor and client is crucial, and ensures the client has accurate information on pricing and timelines before signing on the dotted line.
2. Two year warranty
Your contractor should offer a minimum two year warranty on all work (excluding minor home repair). This will give you peace of mind that your contractor stands behind their work, and the confidence that if you run into an issue, they will be there to solve it.
3. Liability insurance
Your contractor should carry a minimum of $2 million liability insurance. This means that if something goes wrong on the worksite, the contractor covers the liability, instead of you as the homeowner.
4. Workplace safety
Your contactor should have coverage for workplace safety and employers’ liability and/or only work with subcontractors who carry such coverage. During a renovation, your home is considered a workplace and ensuring contractors work safely and have coverage in case of an accident protects you from potential liability.
5. Licenses and permits
Finally, your contractor should carry all applicable licenses and permits. This may seem obvious, but without these, you become the general contractor, not the contractor you’ve hired. You take on the liability and responsibility should an accident occur, and your home insurance may not cover this cost should you experience an issue.
In 2016, Manitobans invested over $2.3 billion into renovation projects to improve their homes, creating over 16,000 direct jobs and over $872 million in wages for workers in Manitoba’s residential renovation industry,” shared McInnes. “With Manitobans investing that much into renovating their homes, it’s important that they have renovators they can count on.”
Still have more questions? Stop by Ask a Renovator, presented by the Manitoba Home Builders’ Association at the Winnipeg Renovation Show for free 15-minute consultations, January 12-14, 2018, at the RBC Convention Centre. Buy tickets online and save $3 courtesy of All Canadian Renovations Ltd.
