Here are three guidelines to keep in mind when undertaking any of the above:
Always choose a CHBA-NL member professional, particularly those with designations (see below);
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.
Builder Designation
Choose a builder with Master Builder Certification. Builders with Certification will have this logo next to their name under Find a Member.
A Master Builder is operating at the highest standards the industry has to offer. The criteria for this provincial Certification is as follows:
- Two-year membership with the CHBA-NL
- In good standing with a recognized warranty program
- Five years of residential construction experience
- Letter of Solvency
- A recognized Quality Assurance Program
- R-2000/ERS or Net Zero Certification
- Red Seal staff or journeyperson(s), engineer, CET, or architect
- Annual professional development for staff
- Completion of recommended courses
Renovator Designation
Choose a renovator registered with the RenoMark Program. Renovators with this registration will have this logo next to their name under Find a Member.
A renovator registered with the nationally-recognized RenoMark Program demonstrates a voluntary commitment to professionalism and integrity in business dealings. The criteria for registration is as follows:
Be a member in good standing of the CHBA-NL
Abide by the CHBA-NL Code of Ethics
Provide a detailed, written contract (including scope of work) for all jobs
Offer a minimum two year warranty on all work (excludes minor home repair)
Carry a minimum of $2 million liability insurance
Have coverage for workplace safety and employers’ liability and/or work only with subcontractors who carry such coverage
Carry applicable licenses and permits.
Have access to information, education, training and professional development through membership in CHBA-NL
Maintain a safe and organized worksite
Return phone calls within two business days
Due Diligence
The industry is unregulated in Newfoundland and Labrador, so it is up to the consumer to conduct due diligence when hiring a contractor. Here are some tips to protect yourself:
Write
In detail, the job you want or need done.
Get Informed
Do you need a permit?
Research Contractors In Your Area
Ask your friends and neighbours for names.
Get A List
Of qualified professionals from your local Home Builders’ Association or Better Business Bureau.
Get Estimates
From at least three different contractors and ask them for customer references.
Call the References
From the contractors you like. Be sure to make a list of questions you want to ask them.
Hire A Professional Contractor
Ask for written contracts and proof of Workers’ Compensation or private liability insurance for injury or damage to your home.
Agree
On the work you want done, the budget and the timeline.
Don’t Accept Offers For Cash Deals Without A Receipt
Paying under the table is no deal – it can leave you with no warranty, no recourse for poor workmanship and no liability insurance if an injury takes place on your property.
Get It In Writing!
If you pay under the table for repairs, construction or home renovation, you are participating in the underground economy – and you’re paying more than you think. For more information, visit the Get It In Writing website.
Contracts
Contracts don’t have to be complicated but they should include:
- 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 (deposit)
- Amount of payment you will hold back as required by the lien legislation in your province
- The contractor’s warranty
- A certificate from an insurance company providing proof of the contractor’s business liability insurance
- A letter of clearance from your province’s Workers’ Compensation program confirming the contractor is registered
- The contractor’s Business Number or GST/HST number
- The contractor’s business license number (municipal)
Get It In Writing!
For a number of years, the Get it in Writing! campaign has provided homeowners with sound information on how to avoid risks when hiring a contractor for their home projects. The campaign was launched by the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) to help consumers protect themselves from underground and fly-by-night contractors.
With the support of Canadian Home Builders’ Association, the Get it in Writing! campaign hosts information on their website. The site offers a wealth of good advice to help consumers do it right, with downloadable worksheets and information from both the CHBA and CMHC.
- Check out the “Get Informed” section to learn about contracts, workers’ compensation, permits, liens and other legal and contractual requirements.
- “Hire a Professional” outlines how to find and hire a renovator, including checklists and worksheets.
- “Underground Deals” highlights the risks to homeowners if they hire a contractor who wants to be paid in cash, and does not play by the rules.
- The downloadable Get it in Writing! brochure is a handy reference tool, and a reminder of the key steps to a renovation project done right.
