3. Hiring a Contractor Casey Edge Executive Director VRBA

4. Hiring a Builder/Renovator Avoid hiring a contractor on the advice of a friend or relative. The vast majority of problem projects involve a consumer hiring someone on this basis. Do your research and diligence - find a Licensed Residential Builder or a Renovator @ www.vrba.cawww.vrba.ca Builder licences can be checked at www.hpo.bc.ca There is no provincial licence for renovators. Our association reviews builder and renovator applicants for their knowledge and experiencewww.hpo.bc.ca View our members’ award-winning projects at www.careawards.cawww.careawards.ca Determine a realistic budget. An estimate tool for new homes can be found at www.bdconsultants.com/tools/costindexwww.bdconsultants.com/tools/costindex Talk to local contractors and ask about their design services. They often work with designers, and can save you money by being on the same page. Get quotes by using our “Expression of Interest ” form. This form goes to 100 VRBA builders and renovators and there is no cost or obligation to you

5. View a contractor’s projects, references, WCB, liability insurance, warranty Discuss education and training – has the builder taken a building envelope course or Built Green training? Sign only a professional, written contract including change order forms. The contract must be fair for both the consumer and contractor and address potential defaults by either party Plan ahead for finishes, budget for extras. Remember - changes may require rescheduling trades and therefore cost extra Stay informed especially re: cost of changes to your project Structural renovations often include surprises like wood rot and insects The cheapest price is rarely the best value and often the most headaches. May also result in the highest cost. Create a realistic budget, hire a professional, use a professional contract and enjoy your new home or renovation for years to come. Visit www.vrba.ca or call 250.383.5044 for more info.www.vrba.ca Hiring a Builder/Renovator