When hiring the right contractor, you need to have a high degree of trust.
Any Contractors that are asking for pre-payments must be licensed by the Government of Alberta to do so. You can verify by contacting the Consumer Contact Centre at 1-877-427-4088 or see Service Alberta.
Here are five things you can do to protect yourself if picking a general contractor, and make sure you’re making a solid investment.
Check their license
Companies are required to hold a license and meet the city’s requirements to operate their business. Without a business license, contractors will be unable to attain necessary construction and trade permits.
Get everything in writing
Ask for detailed estimates from many different contractors. When you have completed your research on finding a General Contractor, have a conversation and ask them for a written contract which contains both project details and company details.
The contract should include:
- Contractor’s business permit number
- Full renovation plans
- Material and product specifications, such as warranty information
- Responsibility for building permits and inspections
- Work schedule
- Price
- Payment agreements
- Business liability insurance Info
- Worker’s compensation program information, or if mediation, carries private disability insurance
Ask for references
Request a list of past jobs and contact information, and call the contractor’s previous clients. Seeing proof of satisfied customers can help to ensure that you’re choosing a qualified general contractor. Also, you should check out some quick tips when hiring a construction company.
Many homeowners do not take the time to check references; instead, they make the assumption that a list of references is proof of good work.
Verify their insurance
Ask for a certificate of insurance as part of your contract.
After the job is completed, check your title
A builder’s lien is a valid notice filed by unpaid suppliers or subcontractors for work or materials on your property. Before paying you’re chosen Calgary home renovations company, check the work that has been completed.
