Checklist — Hiring a Contractor

There is a few things to consider when hiring a good contractor. First you should write a description of the work you want done, with as much detail as possible.Check with your municipal building department to ensure that the work can be done and if any special permits are required, such as zoning approval. Now it is time to find a contractor to perform the work you require.

Start by asking friends and neighbours for recommendations. Get names from your family members, friends, local home builder and renovator associations, building supply outlets and, in some municipalities, your local building department. No matter how you find this contractor here is a few things you MUST ask before they start. This will protect you as a home-owner and can save you money and headache if things do not turn out the way you planned.

You want to find out as much information as possible, so ask a lot of questions, such as:

• How long have you been in business? 
• What kind of work are you or your subcontractors licensed to do, e.g., electrical, plumbing, etc.
• What kind of work do you specialize in? 
• Have you done a similar job before? 
• Will you use your own crew for the work or will you subcontract all or part of the job? 
• How would you handle a specific problem related to this project (e.g., installing kitchen cabinets on a sloping floor)? 
• How will you deal with the health and energy efficiency aspects of the job? 
• How and when do you clean up, particularly fine dust? 
• What work schedule will you follow?
• What kind of warranty do you offer and what does it cover?
• Do you carry workers’ compensation and liability insurance? 
• Will you provide a written contract? 
• Will you take out all required permits (e.g., building, plumbing, electrical)? 

Things to Check for before you hire anyone:

• Business licence number
• Pre-Paid Contractors Licence (this is different than above)
• Liability and property damage insurance (min. 2 million)
• WCB
• Better Business Bureau
• References from past customers
• Website
• A location you can visit
• Samples and literature showing different products that could be used
• Government approved contract

Home-owners responsibilities include:

• Ensuring that all contracted work conforms to zoning by-laws.
• Ensuring adequate working space and freedom of movement for workers, and use of utilities.
• Ensuring prompt payment according to the requirements of the law and the hold back and payment schedule. 

You won’t offend reputable firms with questions. If a contractor doesn't seem to know much about the technical details of the job or doesn't want to talk about them, you may have the wrong contractor.

Most importantly, be sure you can get along with the contractor. If you cannot communicate effectively with the contractor, things can get very tense in a lengthy project. A contractor who is knowledgeable about the type of work you’re wanting, should be able to suggest ways to meet your budget while still getting what you want.

The best proof of quality is satisfied customers. Don’t accept the references at face value. Phone them and ask about their experience with the contractor and their tradespeople. Ask them if they were satisfied with the quality of the work. Would they hire the contractor again or recommend the company to friends and family?

Capitall Exterior Solutions has proven to our customers that we go above and beyond with the qualifications listed above. We carry 5 million dollars in Liability insurance, have a good standing with WCB and have an A+ rating with the BBB. Capitall also has ALL the licenses required to operate a renovation company in Alberta, local business licenses, Prepaid Contractors License, which requires that we are bonded. We are always doing more by providing our employees with all the training needed to perform the installation required by our customers, from first aid to fall prevention. Call us or visit our website to learn more.