Guidelines For Customers
Are you ready to renovate your home or start building your new home? CHBA-NL members are professionals who are looking forward to helping you. Choosing a member – especially one with additional professional designations – gives you the peace of mind that comes with avoiding the underground economy and ensuring contracts and warranties are in place.
The home building and construction industry in Newfoundland and Labrador is unregulated, so it is up to the consumer to conduct due diligence when hiring a contractor. Here are some tips to protect yourself:
Always choose a CHBA-NL member professional, particularly those with Master Builder or RenoMark designations.
Avoid resorting to the underground economy and paying cash (without a receipt) for any work done.
Get it in writing by drawing up a written, detailed contract for all work to be completed.
Guidelines for A Successful Home Build or Renovation
Are you ready to renovate your home or start building your new home? CHBA-NL members are professionals who are looking forward to helping you. Choosing a member – especially one with additional professional designations – gives you the peace of mind that comes with avoiding the underground economy and ensuring contracts and warranties are in place.
The home building and construction industry in Newfoundland and Labrador is unregulated, so it is up to the consumer to conduct due diligence when hiring a contractor.
Here are some tips to protect yourself:
Write Your Plan
Write down In detail, the job you want or need done and any considerations which would impact it.
Get Informed
Do you need a permit? Financing? What is the process of renovating or building your project?
Research Contractors In Your Area
Ensure contractors are members of CHBA-NL and are in good standing by the Better Business Bureau. Ask friends and neighbours for names. Check references and read reviews about contractors.
Get Estimates
Speak to and gather estimates from at least three contractors.
Choose Your Professional Contractor
Ask for a written contract and proof of Workers’ Compensation or private liability insurance for injury or damage to your home.
Sign a Contract
Both parties should agree to and sign a contract on the work you want done, the budget, and the timeline.
Buyer Beware
Never accept an offer for under the table or cash work, or work without a receipt. These agreements often come with no warranty, no recourse for poor workmanship, and no liability insurance if an injury takes place on your property. If you would like more information on how to find and confirm the integrity and credibility of your contractor, download the Get it in Writing Guide and hire a contractor in the smart and safe way.
What Should a Contract Include?
Contracts are essential to protect you, your investment, and the contractor you choose. A contract doesn’t have to be complicated, but they should be taken seriously. Generally, your contract should include the following.
- Contractor’s name, address and phone number
- Full description of work to be done and materials and products to be used
- Timeline – when the work will begin and be completed
- All costs that you will be charged and when you will have to pay including a deposit
- Amount of payment you will hold back as required by lien legislation in Newfoundland and Labrador
- The contractor’s warranty
- A certificate from an insurance company providing proof of the contractor’s business liability insurance
- The contractor’s Business Number or GST/HST number
- The contractor’s business license number (municipal)
Ready to Build?
If you are ready to start building or renovating, but have questions about the process, the CHBA-NL is always available to talk you through the process or put you in contact with the right people for the job. Get in touch with our team.