Hiring a Renovation Contractor in Whistler

Renovation projects are always exciting—at least until you discover you hired the wrong contractor. Given the importance and expense of your renovation, this isn't something you want to happen. Hiring the right contractor helps ensure that everything will go smoothly and that you'll get the results you are hoping for. But how do you go about hiring a Whistler renovation contractor or builder?

Here are some tips to help you make your selection:

Get Some Referrals

Quite possibly your best means of finding someone reliable that you can trust, word-of-mouth and personal recommendations can put you in touch with an excellent, experienced contractor. If someone you know and trust has a recommendation for you, ask them for more information, such as what they liked and whether they would use them again.

You should also be able to find online reviews, and there will likely be comments on their website from previous customers, though you may want to give those less weight than recommendations from personal contacts such as friends and family. You may also be able to find reviews on their social media, as well as gain information about the company and how it interacts with clients and followers.

Check Out Their Credentials

It shouldn't be too difficult to check the contractor's credentials. You should be able to visit their website to learn whether they are properly accredited, possessing the required licenses. You should be able to find information about the training they have undergone and designations they have received from professional associations. Do they mention that they undergo continuous training to update their skills? Be sure to look into the required licenses for your area.

Consider Multiple Candidates

You want to be sure that you will be working with a contractor who is the right fit for you and your project, so don’t be afraid to consider multiple candidates, but also don’t overdo it or you might find you have too much information and too many choices. Consider reaching out to three contractors and setting up meetings with each of them.

Have some questions prepared to ask them and pay close attention to how they answer. Do they normally handle the type of project you have in mind? What is their availability? Are they easy to talk to and relatable? Are they forthcoming and able to answer all your questions satisfactorily? Are they willing to take the time to respond to your questions, or do they seem rushed and not very attentive?

Do they have questions for you so that they know what you are looking for and what your expectations are?

Check Out Their References

Does the Whistler contractor have examples of their previous projects on their website? If not, ask to see some of their work. If you like what you see, ask them about references and whether you can contact former clients. Satisfied clients may be willing to answer questions about their experience or offer other useful information. They should be able to tell you if the contractor met their expectations, executed their project well, and if they completed the project on time and on budget. Was there anything that they feel could have been improved?

Other Considerations

Some other things to consider when selecting a remodeler include whether they carry insurance to protect you from liability. You can ask for a copy of their insurance certificates to double-check. Also, be sure to ask how much value the remodel will add to the building and contact your insurance to notify them of the change.

Are they well-known in the community? If they have been in business for a while and enjoy a good reputation, the community should be familiar with them and the remodeller should have relationships with other professionals such as electricians.

Once you have selected your contractor, carefully review the documents they provide. Is it professional in appearance? Does it include everything you agreed to and nothing that you didn’t?

When selecting a contractor, keep in mind that you are not buying a product, you are paying for a service that will determine the success of your project. Plan and choose accordingly.

At First Peak Contracting, we regularly do home renovations, framing, carpentry, timber-frame and other contracting in Whistler. Please contact First Peak Contracting. We would be happy to discuss your project.