Renovation: Contract and guarantee
When it comes to renovations, it’s critical to have a good contract with clear warranties. These two items are your best protections. Here’s what you need to know about them.
In any case, before you even tackle the contract and warranties, you need to make sure you’re choosing a reliable contractor. Ask your friends and family for referrals, or contact CAA-Quebec, who validates the compliance of the businesses in its network of Approved Residential Suppliers, including enterprise number (NEQ) and third-party liability insurance. Take the time to gather information and request multiple quotes (2 or 3 estimates).
What are the key elements of a comprehensive renovation contract?
The clearer and more thoroughly documented the contract, the more written arguments you can rely on if a claim has to be made. Here’s the basic information that should be included in a good contract:
Name and full contact information of business, as well as RBQ licence number (if required) and any permits required;
Your full contact information;
Work start and finish dates. Include the following on the contract: “Work to be completed before or no later than (date), failing which the merchant undertakes to return the deposit”;
Total cost and payment terms (if the work is eligible for a grant, the contractor may have to provide or sign documents);
Handling or not of debris and clean-up (if appropriate);
Policy number of the contractor’s third-party liability insurance and name of their insurance company (you should also check your own insurance coverage);
The statement in which the contractor undertakes to comply with all applicable municipal regulations and National Building Code standards.
Next, you’ll need to detail every stage of the work required, even for minor renovations: brands of products to be used, colours, finishes, sizes, etc. Include any blueprints or specifications in the contract, for example, if you’ve retained the services of an architect or technologist.
Good to know: If a deposit is required (especially for the purchase of materials), negotiate the smallest possible amount, as no protection is provided for it, e.g. in the event of bankruptcy.
Warranties for renovation
Specific warranty programs are optional for renovation contractors. Below are contractor associations whose programs are well structured:
The Association de la construction du Québec runs a warranty program for renovations;
The Association des maîtres couvreurs du Québec, with its Garantie Maître Plus program, offers coverage for roof repairs.
Good to know: Most of the time, manufacturers of building materials, appliances and accessories include a warranty on their products. Inquire about them, and ask for any written documentation evidencing their existence.
Additional checks to cover yourself during and after your renovation work
Monitor the progress of the work, taking notes and even pictures. Do not officially accept work unless it has been duly carried out, and do not hesitate to call in the services of an inspection expert if in doubt.