Fall is a time when you might be thinking about starting some renovations on your home. The Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority (FCAA) wants to remind consumers to be proactive when researching who to hire and that they should get quotes from two or three potential contractors before any work begins.
Do your research
Ask your contractor to show you pictures of previous projects. Also see if they are listed on the Better Business Bureau directory. If so, read previous customer reviews and ratings.
Establish a contract
Make sure the contract is in writing. The contract should provide:
a detailed description of the goods or services to be supplied;
the final cost and terms of any payment; and
a timeline for the project.
Ask about insurance
Confirm that your contractor has insurance by asking to see their insurance certificates, including Worker's Compensation coverage. These certificates should cover property damage and offer liability insurance to minimize the home owner's responsibility if someone is harmed or something is damaged during the construction work. Ask to see these certificates before the renovation project begins, and confirm with the contractor that the coverage remains in effect.
Contact Consumer Protection Division If you have questions about hiring a contractor, or have issues with a contractor, call toll free at 1-877-880-5550 or by email at consumerprotection@gov.sk.ca. For more information on contractors, visit www.fcaa.gov.sk.ca/consumers-investors-pension-plan-members/consumers/consumers-of-goods-and-services/tips-for-choosing-a-contractor.