Choosing a Contractor 101

It’s that time of the year when spring clean-ups are complete and it’s time for renovations to begin. Choosing the right contractor will help keep your renovations on time and budget. For many homeowners choosing the right contractor can be more overwhelming than the project itself. We have compiled a list to help you decide on the right contractor to help with your project.

What to Look for in a Contractor

• Liability Insurance and WSIB Coverage

1. It’s a law

• Affiliations & Memberships in Trade Associations

1. Show investment in their industry and responsibility

• Signed Contracts

1. Do they have contracts?
2. Are there warranties associated with labour materials?

• Visa or Cheque Deposits

1. Don’t give cash deposits, Visa or Cheque are easily traceable

• Nature of Estimator

1. Business Cards, Contracts, Knowledge of Company Procedures
2. Company Logo Displayed
3. Prepared with Pricing and Product Options

How Much Deposit Should a Customer Give?

• This question is company specific
• Each Organization has their own policy on deposits

Completion Date on Contract?

• If necessary, a tentative completion date can be given
• Completion dates will be weather permitting anyway, so nothing would be guaranteed

 CFIA

• The Canadian Fence Industry Association is a non-profit organization whose members include professional contractors, retailers, agents, wholesalers and manufacturers of fence products and related service. We are dedicated to representing high construction standards as well as a high level of ethical business behavior in a competitive market place.

Call Before You Dig ON1Call 1-800-400-2255

Speak to Your Neighbours – re: your fence project

Read your Local Fence By-Laws – Height Restrictions

Do you have any other tips or advice to add to the list? Let us know what you think in the comments below!