Transcript Hiring a Contractor Casey Edge Executive Director VRBA Hiring a Builder/Renovator •Avoid hiring a contractor on the advice of a friend or relative.

Hiring a Contractor
Casey Edge
Executive Director
VRBA
Hiring a Builder/Renovator
•Avoid hiring a contractor on the advice of a friend or relative. The vast
majority of problem projects involve a consumer hiring someone on this
basis.
•Do your research and diligence - find a Licensed Residential Builder or a
Renovator @ www.vrba.ca
•Builder licences can be checked at www.hpo.bc.ca There is no provincial
licence for renovators. Our association reviews builder and renovator
applicants for their knowledge and experience
•View our members’ award-winning projects at www.careawards.ca
•Determine a realistic budget . An estimate tool for new homes can be
found at www.bdconsultants.com/tools/costindex
• Talk to local contractors and ask about their design services. They often
work with designers, and can save you money by being on the same page.
•Get quotes by using our “Expression of Interest ” form. This form goes to
100 VRBA builders and renovators and there is no cost or obligation to you
Hiring a Builder/Renovator
• View a contractor’s projects, references, WCB, liability
insurance, warranty
•Discuss education and training – has the builder taken a building
envelope course or Built Green training?
•Sign only a professional, written contract including change order
forms. The contract must be fair for both the consumer and
contractor and address potential defaults by either party
•Plan ahead for finishes, budget for extras. Remember - changes
may require rescheduling trades and therefore cost extra
•Stay informed especially re: cost of changes to your project
•Structural renovations often include surprises like wood rot and
insects
• The cheapest price is rarely the best value and often the most
headaches. May also result in the highest cost.
•Create a realistic budget, hire a professional, use a professional
contract and enjoy your new home or renovation for years to
come. Visit www.vrba.ca or call 250.383.5044 for more info.