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Here are our answers to some Frequently Asked Questions with Answers.

If you do not see the answer to a question you might have please contact us.

How do you find the right contractor for your project?

Finding a reliable, skilled contractor can be a challenge. The first thing to do: ask family, neighbours and friends for a referral. The referral should be for a person or company that completed work similar to what you need done. If a contractor did great work on a neighbour's basement drywall installation that does not necessarily mean they will be able or qualified to build you a fabulous new addition or dream kitchen. For any contractor you consider, contact them, set up a meeting and ask them to provide you with references and a portfolio of some of their previous projects. If the contractor cannot meet with you right away, but has good references, it may be worth waiting. Keep in mind that at certain times of the year contractors can be extremely busy with their existing projects. The best time to contact a contractor about new projects is in the late fall to mid-winter. Spring and early summer tend to be the busiest times, and it might be difficult for a contractor to fit your project in with existing work.
There is a certain amount of trust involved with hiring any contractor. At a minimum, they should be able to communicate with you effectively and be able to show evidence that they are adequately qualified and experienced to complete your project.

How much will my project cost?

You work hard for your money. Nobody wants to spend more than necessary to complete a project. That being said, you should realise that construction is an expensive undertaking. Labour costs are high. The costs for materials have been affected by high fuel costs (affects everything from manufacturing to delivery costs). It is absolutely essential to:

1. obtain estimates for the project you have in mind.
   All contractors will provide you with an estimate for your project, usually at no cost. It is often worthwhile to get estimates from more than one contractor - however, be certain you compare apples to apples. One estimate that is lower than another for the project may not contain all the same elements. Some things to look for:
   • Is everything you specified included in the project description?
   • Are materials included?
   • What quality of materials will be used?
   • Is site preparation is required? If yes, is site preparation included in the estimate?
   • Will the contractor perform any demolition that is required prior to new construction?
   • If there is demolition, is the removal of rubbish and debris part of the estimate?
   • Is site cleanup after project completion included?
   • Is there a guarantee for the work?
2. set a realistic budget that includes everything necessary to complete the project When setting up your project budget, keep this important fact in mind:
   Most people make some changes to their project while it is underway.
   It is wise to budget at least 10% of the total project cost for possible over-runs, due to changes or unforeseen problems encountered after the project is underway.

Should you be your own contractor?

This is a tough decision if you have a reasonable knowledge of construction. Even if you have experience with construction, recognize that overseeing your project is extremely time-consuming, especially with a large project. If you are able to be onsite and you are eager to be involved in your project from start to finish, then contracting the project yourself is a great way to ensure the project turns out exactly like you want it, and possibly save some money. On the other hand, if your level of knowledge is minimal and/or you have only limited time to commit to the project, you are probably better off allowing a professional contractor to oversee the project. Most contractors are somewhat flexible with participation of the client with the project.

Should you require further information or wish to make arrangements for a consultation, please contact us.
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