Below are links that may be of interest. If you have other suggestions for links or would like to submit a link, please contact us.

• CMHC - Renovating a Home
• Finding the Right Contractor
• Get It In Writing Campaign
• Design Ideas

Dear Homeowner,

During a time when skilled trades people are at a premium, we highly recommend that you hire an experienced and qualified builder with the necessary business skills, rather than a business man with no building skills. A builder knows his trade, and therefore can anticipate unknowns, estimate accurately, and recognize skilled help - he can judge the performance of his men. A business man with limited trade experience relies on skilled men to work well but cannot determine if they are being efficient and effective. This is particularly dangerous during a boom in the building industry combined with a shortage of skilled trades persons.

We advise home owners to only consider hiring builders with Trade Certification combined with experience. Builders should carry liability insurance, WCB insurance and a City of Calgary business license. The builder you are hiring should provide you with a contract that includes a detailed scope of work, guarantee information and a payment schedule. Let your builder educate you on Change Work Orders and "Trials on Patience" - the reality of having a renovation done. Observe your builder's business skills - make sure efforts are in place to manage your job and provide you with excellent customer service.

Remember, there are good, honest, hardworking men in the profession who take great pride in their performance and skill.

Respectfully,

Barnabas Tacskovics