There is a great deal of planning that goes into a renovation, whether it be a bathroom, kitchen or whole home renovation.  Of course there is the financial planning, and the much more enjoyable space planning.

At Interiors with Elegance, we feel it’s important that our Calgary customers not only receive quality work, but are protected during the renovation process. We have compiled some important questions you can ask before you hand over the keys to your family home, and the savings you have so carefully collected.

1. Licensing and Coverage 

Ask your Calgary renovation specialist this question:

 “Can you show me evidence that you are licensed and carry Liability and Workers Compensation insurance?”

Anyone can say they are licensed and insured, so make them prove it.

 Check the expiration dates, or call the issuing authority, like the City of Calgary for example.

Why ask?

There would be a reason why a contractor DOESN’T have a business licence, so its a huge red flag when they don’t. This question can help you ensure you are dealing with a qualified professional.

Liability insurance will protect your home from damage or negligence of the contractor, their employees or sub-contractors.  The standard is a one million dollar policy.  If something goes wrong, and your contractor doesn’t have liability insurance, there are only a few choices for you to move forward:

1. You can pay the damages. Less than ideal.

2. You can try to go after the contractor by suing him. However, if they couldn’t afford insurance, they probably don’t have anything to sue for, and don’t mind taking the illegal road during conflict.

3. You can try to have your home owners insurance policy cover it.  The snag here is that your policy most likely states that they are not liable in these circumstances.

If the contractor doesn’t carry WCB insurance,  you will be liable if a worker is injured on your property.  If the contractor does all the work himself, he may get by without WCB.  This is still risky, because if he gets to the job with a helper, who is then injured, you pay.  If he doesn’t verify his sub-contractors carry WCB and they are injured, you also pay.

 

By asking this simple question, and having some basic knowledge of what is required of a quality renovation company, you and your home will be protected.  At IWE, we encourage you to do your research and welcome you to come to our design center.  We can answer your questions and put your mind at ease.

 

Stay tuned for  Part Two of Important Questions to ask your Contractor