How to select the right builder for you

HOW TO SELECT THE RIGHT BUILDER FOR YOU

The most important decision you have in your building process is the selection of the right builder for you. When you are looking for a home builder here are some criteria for you to consider in your selection.

1.   Their credentials:

·        Are they licensed?

ü  GC license valid for the area of the build

2.    It is important to check if all of their contractors and trades have their license's such as

ü Plumbing license

ü Electrical license  

ü  HVAC license

ü Working at heights

ü First Aid

ü  WHIMIS

·        Do they have all the necessary insurance?

ü  Builder insurance

ü  WSIB

ü  General contractor insurance

·        Do they belong to any builders associations?

3.   Their past work and references:

·        Ask to see some completed projects (not just online but in person)

·        Are you able to visit any ongoing jobs?

·        Can they provide references for complete work?

·        Take a look at their website, and social media, are they active?

·        Do your due diligence and see if there are any complaints against them and how they handle themselves during disputes?

4.   What services do they offer:

·        Do they offer design services?

ü  It is better to work with the same company from design stages to ensure they have your budget in mind when creating your drawings

ü  A lot of unnecessary costs can be avoided with a proper design/drawings

·        Do they obtain the permits for you?

·        Do they offer detailed budgets?

·        Do they have a full team that is able to guide you through every and all process of the build?

·        Do they offer their suppliers/vendors with their discounts?

·        What reassurances do they have in place in case of discrepancies/deficiencies?

5.   Budgets/costs

·        This is where you need to see how detailed and comprehensible their budget is.

·        Do they consider all works from demolition to completion?

·        Can they point out what may be extras or credits ?

·        Are the materials and labor included?

·        What contingencies do they have in case of price hikes on both material and labor?

·        Will you get ongoing extras during the building process?

In conclusion:

Don't be afraid to ask the hard questions and see what and how the response is handled. No question is a silly question. Remember transparency is the key to a successful project.  Find out if they can meet your deadlines, if they have experience in any of the innovative technologies you want to implement in your home? Get their contractor references and see how their trades enjoy working with them. This is your home and your life so be sure in the selection. You will be required to put 100% of your trust in them so be sure you are comfortable. Are you able to speak with them freely?  Trust your gut feeling because you will be spending the majority of the next couple years with them. 

Stay tuned for the next blog on "Starting your Home Design"