Contracting Out Your Projects?

Spring is here and it’s time to get organized and plan out your projects. The question is, whether to do it yourself or hire a professional?

The importance of hiring the right contractor can make all the difference in the job but it can also cause unwanted stress if you are not prepared. So try these simple tips and enjoy your project.

Draft A Plan
• Write out a list of all the trades required and their scope of work along with your expectations, right down to who cleans up. Ensure that your trades have the proper liability insurance and WSIB. Do some of your own research so that you can ask the right questions and get the right answers.

• Check into all permits required, their costs and timeframes as well a list of the necessary setbacks to property lines.

All Quotes Are Not Equal:
• Each quote should be based on your plan and needs – apples to apples, right.

• Hire a contractor who specializes in that trade. They are likely more up to date on new products and are typically good at what they do. When you get a quote, make sure that it is a quote, not an estimate and that it includes all materials and labor needed to complete their portion of the job.

• It’s very important to determine a fair and precise payment schedule. Only a small deposit should be needed.  Contractors have accounts for the materials and shouldn’t need cash to get started.  Payments should be based on progress and stages of the project and the final payment should never be made until you are completely satisfied with their work, never pay ahead.

• Everyone realizes that there is always a possibility of unforeseen or midstream changes. If these arise, get it in writing, dated and signed.

• Some contractors will sub out some aspects of the work which is not uncommon, but make sure that you know who is paying them ahead of hiring.

• When looking for trades always ask your friends and family if they have had a good experience with a trade or post it on Facebook for feedback.

• Look for local and knowledge specific trades. Most good people are busy, so book ahead. Find out who is responsible for acquiring any permits and the costs involved with those. If drawings are required, same rule applies.

• Establish a clear schedule and have them commit to it. This will also help you plan for the progress payments, no surprises.

• Once each trade is completed their portion, do a full inspection and don’t accept loose ends prior to final payment.

I hope that this has been some help but don’t hesitate to send me your questions. Good luck and have fun with it!

Our Resident DIY Guru; Dave Linkert, Port 32 Marshall Homes, Bobcaygeon
cottagecountryDIYdave@gmail.com