5 tips for choosing the right contractor

 1. Check with trusted, recognized authorities in the field

Here’s how to get the names of dependable businesses:

Check with trade associations (e.g., the Association of Heating Professionals, the Association of Masonry Contractors or the Association of Roofers) and corporations (e.g., the master pipe mechanics [plumbing] or master electricians of Quebec).

Get names from the professional orders governing the trade you need (consulting engineers, architects, professional technologists, land surveyors, and chartered appraisers) whose primary mission is to protect the public.

Check with manufacturers of products and materials, some of whom have their own recommended installers and technicians.

And you should also check their credentials and backgrounds.

See the Régie du bâtiment du Québec licence-holders directory (RBQ) and Quebec’s business registry (in French only).

Check whether any complaints have been filed against the company with the consumer protection bureau.

Read comments on social media.

There’s more than one way to track down the right contractor for your job. All the same, the CAA-Quebec Network of Approved Residential Suppliers is definitely a ticket to peace of mind. Member businesses have to meet strict standards for skills and certification, solvency, compliance, and reputation. And members even get a discount.

2. Ask people you know for recommendations

Ask friends and family members who’ve had renovations done recently, especially if they were similar to what you’re planning. Were they satisfied? Were there things that could have gone better? They can also answer your questions about quality of service, dependability, and their overall experience. Plus you might even get a peek at the actual results—live or on camera!

3. Get quotes for the work

Get quotes from at least three businesses that list a street address. Insist that the contractor:

Visit the site so they understand the scope of the job and what they’re starting with.

Provide a detailed quote in writing (same goes for the contract later on) so you can compare apples to apples—work description, materials, costs, terms of payment, guarantees, inclusions, exclusions, and so forth.

Don’t be shy about asking questions or insisting on more details, especially if there’s a big difference in price.

Good to know: CAA-Quebec Residential Advisory Services looks over member quotes free of charge and gives you an objective opinion.

4. Check their permits, warranty, and insurance

The contractor you want to hire has to have the necessary permits to do the job (the same even goes for door-to-door salespeople) and proper civil liability insurance (remember to tell your own home insurance provider about the work too). And make sure they guarantee their work. Don’t just take their word for it. Insist on seeing official proof, then take down all the numbers and expiry dates and look them up for yourself. If they won’t show you, assume they’re hiding something. Otherwise they’d jump at the chance to prove that they’re trustworthy and legit.

5. Look for these must-have qualities

Punctuality: Reliable and competent businesspeople show up on time or let you know if they’re going to be late.

Credibility: serious tradespeople give you their full contact information right away (phone, email, mailing address, and RBQ registration number).

Honesty: Even before they give you a quote, your prospective contractor should tell you if they charge for quotes or travel.

Communication: Are you on the same wavelength? Vague or inconsistent answers are a red flag.

Compatibility: If you feel uncomfortable around the person managing the job, things could get tense and awkward later on.

Last but not least, the right way to reno depends just as much on planning as it does on finding a good contractor. And don’t forget there are lots of housing subsidies available. Be sure to check—you never know!