The RenoMark distinction is a nationally recognized brand and your company will be included in the national online searchable database of renovators known for their professionalism and reputation.
CHBA-NL members who have earned RenoMark certification must meet specific criteria to be offered the distinction – they must be a CHBA-NL member in good standing, hire only professionals, and undertake regular professional development.
The rigorous criteria that they must meet and maintain includes:
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
Hire a CHBA-NL Member
The CHBA represents the professional home building industry with more than 8,000 members across the country.
- Membership in the CHBA is a strong indication that a new home builder is a professional who is dedicated to the business of home building and in business for the long term.
- Membership is voluntary. Members agree to the Association’s Code of Ethics, which is based on principles of fairness, integrity and consumer satisfaction.
- Home building is complex, demanding and constantly evolving. Through the CHBA, members can keep up to date on technological advances, regulations, new products, financing, and so on—in short, knowledge that no professional new home builder can do without.
- Home building is teamwork that takes the skills and expertise of many different trades and suppliers. Builders who belong to the CHBA have ready access to a wide network of member companies to help them deliver a high level of quality and service to home buyers.
- Managing a successful home building business means being part of the community. Through their local associations, CHBA members work with local decision-makers to contribute to the vitality and well-being of the community, and perhaps most importantly, to make a difference in the lives of the people who live there.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB)
To properly complete your due diligence when hiring a contractor, it’s a good idea to check their rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for the Atlantic Provinces. The BBB helps people find and recommend businesses and brands they can trust.
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)
Online Renovation Advice to Get You Started Right
Home renovation often begins with questions: “How does it work, where do I start, what about…, how do I…,” and so on. Online research can help you get answers. Here are some informative sites to get your home renovation planning off to a good start.
- www.chba.ca is the site of the National Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA). Renovating Your Home offers information and practical advice from Canada’s professional renovators: introduction to the renovation process, ideas for projects and products, how to plan your project and hire a contractor, and more.
- Check out the Homeowners’ Guide to Green Renovation. Download helpful worksheets and checklists. Use the search engine to find renovation contractors in your community.
- www.hiringacontractor.com is the official site of the Get it in Writing! initiative, aimed at helping homeowners protect their renovation investment.
- www.cmhc.ca is the site of Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). Check Renovating a Home for step-by-step renovation advice and project videos. Case studies explain how to improve the energy efficiency of homes which can be sorted by house type and year of construction. A database of fact sheets can help homeowners plan their project and avoid surprises.
- www.oee.nrcan.gc.ca is the access point to Natural Resource Canada’s Office of Energy Efficiency for a wide range of information on energy conservation. Get advice on choosing energy-efficient appliances and equipment, such as windows and doors, heating and cooling systems, and lighting. Look for detailed information on grants for home renovations, including what is available at the provincial level.
- www.renomark.ca is an introduction to the RenoMark™ program in place in many local Home Builders’ Associations across the country. The program helps consumers connect with professional renovators in their community. The website explains what you can expect when you hire a RenoMark™ renovator, including a code of conduct that members agree to abide by.
