Here is a simple truth: renovating your home can be one of the most frustrating undertakings of being a homeowner. I can personally attest to it! The reality for many home owners (especially) in Toronto where there are many older homes, is that renovations are going to happen. In the past I’ve written blogs on how to make this process easier; tips on how to find and hire contractors and what can happen when you rush into projects. I recently came across a helpful Project Checklist put together by the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) and the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) that is a concise list of renovation milestones that home owners’ should be aware of. Check the list out below.
Project Checklist
- Ask around about contractors
- Interview contractors
- Follow up on contractor references
- Select contractors to supply quotes and provide them with the same information
- Obtain building permit if required by municipality, or have your contractor do this for you
- Check with provincial government about applicable lien regulations and requirements
- Call insurance company to ensure your coverage includes construction related risks
- Verify contractor’s business liability insurance
- Verify that required Workers’ Compensation coverage is in place
- Insist on a written contract – don’t do business with anyone who won’t provide one
- Read the contract details to make certain it represents what you have agreed to
- Make sure the contract includes a clear warranty
- Sign it and have your contractor sign it
- Keep written receipts for all payments
- Get any changes to the signed contract in writing
- Follow up on any warranty issues in a timely manner